theatin

Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia

1. Of or pertaining to the Theatins.
2. n. One of a monastic order of regular clerks founded at Rome in 1524, principally by the archbishop of Chieti in Italy, with the purpose of combating the Reformation. Besides taking the usual monastic vows, the Theatins bound themselves to abstain from the possession of property and from soliciting alms, and to trust wholly to Providence for support, expecting, however, that this support would be derived from the voluntary contributions of the charitable. There were also Theatin nuns. The order flourished to some extent in Spain, Bavaria, and Poland, but its influence is now confined chiefly to Italy. Also Teatin.

GNU Webster's 1913

1. n. (R. C. Ch.) One of an order of Italian monks, established in 1524, expressly to oppose Reformation, and to raise the tone of piety among Roman Catholics. They hold no property, nor do they beg, but depend on what Providence sends. Their chief employment is preaching and giving religious instruction.
2. n. (R. C. Ch.) One of an order of nuns founded by Ursula Benincasa, who died in 1618.