Manichean

or Man·i·chae·an

[ man-i-kee-uhn ]

/ ˌmæn ɪˈki ən /

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noun

Also Man·i·chee

[man-i-kee]. /ˈmæn ɪˌki/. an adherent of the dualistic religious system of Manes, a combination of Gnostic Christianity, Buddhism, Zoroastrianism, and various other elements, with a basic doctrine of a conflict between light and dark, matter being regarded as dark and evil.

adjective

of or relating to the Manicheans or their doctrines.

QUIZ

CAN YOU ANSWER THESE COMMON GRAMMAR DEBATES?

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Question 1 of 7

Which sentence is correct?

His boss, whom he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

His boss, who he admires, is waiting to meet with him about the big project.

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Origin of Manichean

1300–50; Middle English Maniche (<Late Latin Manichaeus<Late Greek Manichaîos of Manes) + -an

OTHER WORDS FROM Manichean

Man·i·che·an·ism, Man·i·che·ism, noun

Words nearby Manichean

manic-depressive illness, manic disorder, Manichaean, Manichaeism, Manichaeus, Manichean, manicotti, manicure, manicurist, manifer, manifest

How to use Manichean in a sentence

Nor, indeed, should it be reduced into Manichean lenses—blaming property developers and the civil service for creating the crisis.
As Hong Kong Marks 25 Years of British Handover, Its 'Cage Homes' Remain a Stark Reminder of Its Inequities|Brian Wong|June 30, 2022|Time
Now that same Manichean worldview has led the neocons to support an Afghan surge.
How the Surge Hurts Israel|Peter Beinart|December 6, 2009|DAILY BEAST
Under the reign of Robert in 1007 several heretics were burned at Orleans for tenets which are represented as Manichean.
View of the State of Europe during the Middle Ages, Vol. 3 (of 3)|Henry Hallam
This distinction is thoroughly Manichean, and leaves no doubt as to the origin of the Albigenses.
View of the State of Europe during the Middle Ages, Vol. 3 (of 3)|Henry Hallam

We owe much (notwithstanding their partial and Manichean idea of beauty) to the early ascetic painters.
Daily Thoughts|Charles Kingsley
In this last particular, the tendency of the Fourieristic morality is quite Manichean.
What is Property?|P. J. Proudhon
The dualist idea and a complete rejection of the Old Testament were leading Manichean doctrines.
How France Built Her Cathedrals|Elizabeth Boyle O'Reilly