beadsman

[ beedz-muhn ]

noun

, Archaic.

, plural beads·men.

1. a person who prays for another as a duty, especially when paid.
2. an inmate of a poorhouse; almsman.

beadsman

/ ˈbiːdzmən /

noun

1. a person who prays for another's soul, esp one paid or fed for doing so
2. a person kept in an almshouse

Word History and Origins

Origin of beadsman¹

1200–50; bead's man man of prayer; replacing Middle English bedeman. See bead, 's ¹, man

Example Sentences

What can be better touched than the figures of the beadsman and the old nurse Angela?

From Project Gutenberg

A beadsman was an inmate of an almshouse who was bound to pray for the founders of the house.

From Project Gutenberg

"Only Carey, the wandering beadsman of Pittenweem," replied the son.

From Project Gutenberg

Henry followed the beadsman, who hurried on towards Falconcleugh.

From Project Gutenberg

A beadsman, it is scarcely requisite to remark, is an individual who is bound to pray for the person by whom he is supported.

From Project Gutenberg