sectary

American  

[sek-tuh-ree] / ˈsɛk tə ri /

noun

plural

sectaries

1. a member of a particular sect, especially an adherent of a religious body regarded as heretical or schismatic.

2. a Protestant of nonconformist denomination, especially a minor one.

3. a person zealously devoted to a particular sect.

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sectary British  

/ ˈsɛktərɪ /

noun

1. a member of a sect, esp a person who belongs to a religious sect that is regarded as heretical or schismatic

2. a person excessively devoted to a particular sect

3. a member of a Nonconformist denomination, esp one that is small

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Etymology

Origin of sectary

1550–60; < Medieval Latin sectārius, equivalent to sect ( a ) sect + -ārius -ary

Example Sentences

The latter was commissioned by the home sectary and Sir Ken.

From BBC • Jul. 2, 2025

An ex-senior adviser recalled being sent a document about a reform agenda and a permanent sectary ordering them to "just bin it immediately".

From BBC • Aug. 7, 2023

Does he speak in the tone of an enthusiast, or of an ambitious sectary?

From The Christian Foundation, Or, Scientific and Religious Journal, April, 1880 by Walker, Aaron

The Puritan had appropriated one of De Noyan's hats, broad of brim, and so ample of crown the high peaked head of the worthy sectary was almost lost within its capacious interior.

From Prisoners of Chance The Story of What Befell Geoffrey Benteen, Borderman, through His Love for a Lady of France by Parrish, Randall

The pope finding this sectary increasing in numbers and popularity, in spite of the vigorous counteracting efforts of his appliances of bishops, priests and monks, ordered Raymond VI.,

From Monks, Popes, and their Political Intrigues by Alberger, John