Skip to main content
Waldensian

Waldensian

1 9.9
Relating to a Christian group that began in the 1100s in northern Italy and France
  • adjective
  • /wɔːlˈdɛnziən/
: valdense
  • My place of registration—necessary in order to gain admission cards to libraries—was the Facoltà Valdese di Teologia, the Waldensian Faculty of Theology.

Examples

  • The Waldensian movement emphasizes the importance of scripture and community in Christian life.

  • My father was born in Biella (Piedmont region) and knew a great deal about the Waldensian culture in Italy and how they were more open than other groups due to the persecution laid upon them.

    Blog text (9)
  • When asked to speak in Sacrament meeting, he would relate his conversion to that of the Waldensian sect in his homeland.

    Blog text (9)
  • In northern Italy, the Waldensian churches are known for their historical significance and commitment to education.

  • Her research focuses on the Waldensian beliefs and their impact on early Protestantism in Europe.

Surface Forms

Waldensian positive

Morphology

Waldensian = Waldo (semi-transparent) = Waldo + ian

The suffix '-ian' clearly marks relation to a person/place, but understanding the historical referent (Waldo/Waldensians) requires specific knowledge, so learners cannot fully infer the precise meaning.

Etymology

Waldensian comes from Peter Waldo, a 12th century teacher whose followers were called 'Waldensians'. So, Waldensian describes the beliefs, communities, or history connected to that group.