noun
historicalA member of a mystical Polish Christian sect professing particular devotion to Virgin Mary, founded in 1906.
The sect was recognized by the Polish Duma in 1911 and enjoyed a few years' prosperity thereafter, but declined in numbers and influence in the early 1920s.
adjective
historicalOf, relating to, or belonging to the sect of Mariavites.
Origin
Early 20th century; earliest use found in The Tablet. From post-classical Latin Mariavita from Polish mariawita from the Latin phrase qui Mariae vitam imitantur who copy the life of Mary.
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