Nazarite

American  

[naz-uh-rahyt] / ˈnæz əˌraɪt /

Or Nazirite

noun

1. (among the ancient Hebrews) a person who had taken certain strict religious vows, usually for a limited period.

2. Rare. a Nazarene.

3. Rare. Christ.

4. Obsolete. a Christian.

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Nazarite ¹ British  

/ ˈnæzəˌraɪt /

noun

1. another word for Nazarene Nazarene

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Nazarite ² British  

/ ˈnæzəˌraɪt /

noun

1. a religious ascetic of ancient Israel

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Other Word Forms

• Nazaritic adjective

Etymology

Origin of Nazarite

1550–60; < Late Latin Nāzar ( aeus ) (< Greek Nāzēraîos, equivalent to nāzēr (< Hebrew nāzīr consecrated person) + -aios suffix) + -ite ¹

Example Sentences

Damon Landor, the petitioner, wore long dreadlocks for almost 20 years as an expression of his beliefs as a Rastafarian – part of a biblical practice known as the “Nazarite vow.”

From Salon

He explained that the Bible says that while someone is observing the Nazarite vow, "no razor may be used on their head."

From Fox News

Translations from Hebrew and Christian scriptures tell the story of Samson, a Nazarite and judge, whose locked hair was the source of his strength, and which was famously cut with dire consequences.

From The Guardian

This Nazarite child is accepted for the perpetual service of God at once and without remark.

From Project Gutenberg

He would be specially dedicated as a Nazarite to God’s service.

From Project Gutenberg