Methodist \Meth"o*dist\, n. [Cf. F. m['e]thodiste. See
Method.]
1. One who observes method. [Obs.]
2. One of an ancient school of physicians who rejected
observation and founded their practice on reasoning and
theory. --Sir W. Hamilton.
3. (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.
4. A person of strict piety; one who lives in the exact
observance of religious duties; -- sometimes so called in
contempt or ridicule.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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