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

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 • Aug. 3, 2021

It seemed therefore of my calling that I should live as a Nazarite and die alone, having known neither wife nor child, and indeed this may be my lot.”

From Graham of Claverhouse by Maclaren, Ian

You will, I hope, remember Samson, who was a Nazarite from his birth; and who fell into great trouble, because his vow was broken, when his hair was cut off by Delilah.

From "Granny's Chapters" (on scriptural subjects) by Ross, Lady Mary

If a Nazarite is meant—one unshaven, and an abstainer from wine and strong drink—the character does not apply to Jesus, who "came eating and drinking."

From The Two Tests: The Supernatural Claims of Christianity Tried by Two of its Own Rules by Lisle, Lionel

The Nazarite vow, so strong and binding, became in Delilah's hands, as she held the shears, weaker than the withes she bound about the arms of the captured giant.

From Oriental Women by Pollard, Edward Bagby