Dictionary

A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.

Or browse the dictionary by selecting a letter!
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

NEOPHYTE

One who has entered on a new and better state of life. Thus a newly baptized convert from unbelief or a non-Christian religion today or to Christianity from Judaism in the early Church. The name is also given to a novice or postulant in a religious community or to a beginner in studying for the priesthood. (Etym. Greek neos,new + phutos, grown: neophutos, lit. newly planted.)

All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

Click here to advertise on CatholicCulture.org