American Dictionary of the English Language

METH'ODIST, noun One that observes method.

1. One of a sect of christians, founded by Morgan, or rather by John Wesley, and so called from the exact regularity of their lives, and the strictness of their principles and rules.

2. A physician who practices by method or theory.

3. In the cant of irreligious men, a person of strict piety; one who lives in the exact observance of religious duties.