anabaptist Meaning, Definition & Usage

An`a*bap"tist noun

Etymology

LL. anabaptista, fr. Gr. as if : cf. F. anabaptiste.

Definitions

1. A name sometimes applied to a member of any sect holding that rebaptism is necessary for those baptized in infancy. ✍ In church history, the name Anabaptists usually designates a sect of fanatics who greatly disturbed the peace of Germany, the Netherlands, etc., in the Reformation period. In more modern times the name has been applied to those who do not regard infant baptism as real and valid baptism.