Quaker

[ kwey-ker ]

noun

1. a popular name for a member of the Society of Friends.

Quaker

/ ˈkweɪkə /

noun

1. a member of the Religious Society of Friends, a Christian sect founded by George Fox about 1650, whose central belief is the doctrine of the Inner Light. Quakers reject sacraments, ritual, and formal ministry, hold meetings at which any member may speak, and have promoted many causes for social reform

adjective

1. of, relating to, or designating the Religious Society of Friends or its religious beliefs or practices

Quaker

1. A member of the Religious Society of Friends. The Quakers are a group of Christians (see also Christian ) who use no scripture and believe in great simplicity in daily life and in worship. Their services consist mainly of silent meditation.

Notes

Quakers have traditionally been committed to pacifism .

Pennsylvania was settled by a group of Quakers fleeing religious persecution.

Derived Forms

• ˈQuakerism, noun
• ˈQuakerish, adjective
• ˈQuakeress, noun:feminine

Other Words From

• an·ti-Quak·er adjective noun
• Quak·er·ish Quak·er·like adjective
• non-Quak·er noun adjective
• non-Quak·er·ish adjective
• pro-Quak·er adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of Quaker¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; quake + -er ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of Quaker¹

C17: originally a derogatory nickname, alluding either to their alleged ecstatic fits, or to George Fox's injunction to " quake at the word of the Lord"

Example Sentences

Political analysts say the next presidential candidate will need the state of Pennsylvania’s votes to take the White House, which has made the Quaker State a key focus of this presidential race.

From Salon

The two most severely injured horses, Vida and Quaker, are recovering well in the countryside after undergoing operations and are set to return to work soon, officials said.

From Seattle Times

Quaker, a Cavalry black, and a grey called Vida bolted off after being spooked by builders moving rubble.

From BBC

The irony of a future military historian attending a Quaker school is not lost on Gluck.

From Los Angeles Times

She died of cancer at 74 at her home in Quaker Hill, Conn., her daughter, Khadija T. Griffith, said.

From New York Times

Related Words

• shock
• temblor
• upheaval