Dorcas society

American  

noun

1. a society of women of a church whose work it is to provide clothing for people in need.

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Dorcas society British  

noun

1. a Christian charitable society for women with the aim of providing clothes for the poor

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Etymology

Origin of Dorcas society

First recorded in 1825–35; named after Dorcas

Example Sentences

"I was in doubts," he said, "as to whether I was in one of Moody and Sankey's meetings or whether some strange fate had thrown me into the midst of a Dorcas society."

From The Man Who Rose Again by Hocking, Joseph

She was active in Dorcas society and in meeting.

From A Northern Countryside by Richards, Rosalind

The Dorcas society is entirely under my wife's management as a rule, and except for Miss Brett, who, as I say, is very active, I scarcely know any members of it.

From The Club of Queer Trades by Chesterton, G. K. (Gilbert Keith)

She established a Dorcas society at Baslehurst, of which she became permanent president, and spent her money in carrying on this institution in the manner most pleasing to herself.

From Rachel Ray by Trollope, Anthony

Oh yes: perhaps we can form ourselves into a Dorcas society.

From Christmas with Grandma Elsie by Finley, Martha