What does methodist mean?
A Methodist is a member of Methodism, a major branch of Protestant Christianity traditionally linked with John Wesley and the eighteenth-century renewal movement in Britain. The name refers to the methodical organization and disciplined devotional practices that helped define the early movement, although it should not imply that Methodists approach religion in a rigid or merely mechanical fashion. As an adjective, Methodist describes churches, ministers, theology, institutions and other matters connected with the denomination. The term is used internationally, with the United Methodist Church and other affiliated bodies prominent in the United States and Methodist churches established across Britain, Europe, Africa, Asia and the Pacific. Methodist traditions have historically emphasized personal faith, disciplined moral conduct, education, evangelism and social responsibility. In ordinary contemporary usage, “Methodist” usually refers specifically to a religious adherent or to something belonging to the Methodist tradition, rather than to a generic adherent of any methodical system.
A member of Methodism or of a church belonging to the Methodist tradition.
"She was raised a Methodist and later joined a congregation in another town."
Normally capitalized when referring to an adherent of the Christian denomination.
Relating to Methodism, Methodists, or their beliefs, practices or institutions.
"The conference approved a new policy for Methodist churches."
Usually capitalized in reference to the Christian denomination.
Used when referring collectively or individually to more than one member of the Methodist tradition.
"Methodists from several congregations attended the regional meeting."
The word “Methodist” originally signalled a disciplined way of living: early Methodists emphasized orderly devotional practices, personal accountability and service to others.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does methodist come from?
“Methodist” was formed in the early eighteenth century from “method” and the suffix “-ist,” with the initial capital later associated with the named religious movement. “Method” comes through Old French from Latin methodus, itself borrowed from Greek methodos, a term associated with following a prescribed course or way of doing something. The religious name referred to the methodical discipline and regularity of the movement’s early devotional life. The same Latin and Greek foundation also underlies words such as “methodical” and “methodology.”
Related word forms
How methodist is actually used
The capitalized form “Methodist” normally names a religious denomination, tradition or adherent. In historical writing, “methodist” with a lowercase m may mean a person who follows a particular method or systematic approach, but this use is uncommon in modern English.