Manichean

or Man·i·chae·an

[ man-i-kee-uh n ]

/ ˌmæn ɪˈki ən /

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.

Origin of Manichean

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

Related forms

Man·i·che·an·ism, Man·i·che·ism, noun

Examples from the Web for manichean

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
Perhaps the Manichean in De Gourmont fabricated its revolting images.
Unicorns|James Huneker
In 491, the mother of the emperor Anastase, who was a Manichean, obtained the suspension of the laws enacted against them.
Pagan Origin of Partialist Doctrines|John Claudius Pitrat
The first religious persecutions had begun, in the slaying of the Manichean heretics at Orléans.
The Story of Rouen|Sir Theodore Andrea Cook

A Manichean composition in reality, it was mistaken for a Christian poem.
History of the Intellectual Development of Europe, Volume II (of 2)|John William Draper
We are going to make a party to hear this Manichean of poesy.
Life of Lord Byron, Vol. II|Thomas Moore