Augustinian

Part of speech: adjective, noun

Definitions

1. Referring to individuals or communities connected with the Order of Saint Augustine, which emphasizes the teachings and legacy of Augustine of Hippo
2. Concerning the doctrinal or philosophical ideas that originate from the works of Augustine of Hippo, often shaping Christian theology
3. Relating to those affiliated with the religious community founded by Saint Augustine, which adheres to his teachings and traditions

Etymology: Augustine of Hippo, the fourth- and fifth-century bishop whose writings shaped Western Christian thought, gave his name to a whole family of religious orders. The adjective "Augustinian" means "of Saint Augustine," and it was formed in Latin as "Augustinianus," built from the name "Augustinus" plus the suffix "-ianus," meaning "belonging to." The English word came into Middle English from that Latin source. The name itself carries a second history. The Latin form "Augustinianī," used for groups of monks and hermits, was derived from "Augustinus" plus "-ianus" in the same way, but it was named after an unidentified person, not after the bishop. So the word for the monastic followers and the word for the bishop's teachings share a grammatical structure but may point to different namesakes. In the nouns and adjectives used today, the word simply refers to the Augustinian canons, friars, and nuns who follow a rule traditionally linked to Augustine, as well as to ideas associated with his theology, such as Augustinian views on grace.