What does "methodist" mean?

Methodist: One of an ancient school of physicians who rejected observation and founded their practice on reasoning and theory. Sir W. Hamilton.

Additional senses

  1. 2.(Theol.) One of a sect of Christians, the outgrowth of a small association called the "Holy Club," formed at Oxford University, A.D. 1729, of which the most conspicuous members were John Wesley and his brother Charles; -- originally so called from the methodical strictness of members of the club in all religious duties.
  2. 3.A person of strict piety; one who lives in the exact observance of religious duties; -- sometimes so called in contempt or ridicule.
  3. 4.Of or pertaining to the sect of Methodists; as, Methodist hymns; a Methodist elder.

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