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American Dictionary of the English Language

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Recusant


RECU'SANT, adjective s as z. [Latin recusans, recuso, to refuse; re and the root of causa, signifying to drive. The primary sense is to repel or drive back.]

Refusing to acknowledge the supremacy of the king, or to conform to the established rites of the church; as a recusant lord.

RECU'SANT, noun [supra.]

1. In English history, a person who refuses to acknowledge the supremacy of the king in matters of religion; as a popish recusant who acknowledges the supremacy of the pope.

2. One who refuses communion with the church of England; a non-conformist.

All that are recusants of holy rites.