1. One
who observes method.
2. One of an
ancient school of
physicians who rejected
observation and founded their practice on reasoning and theory.
3. One of a sect of Christians, the outgrowth of a
little 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
face of strict piety; one
who lives in the exact
observance of religious duties; sometimes so called in contempt or ridicule.
Origin: Cf. F. Methodiste. See Method.
Source: Websters Vocabulary