Missioner Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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missioner
[ˈmɪʃənər ]
Definitions
government
A person who has been appointed to a particular government position or task, especially in a diplomatic or military context.
Synonyms
delegate, envoy, representative.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| missioner |
Typically used in religious contexts to describe someone who is sent to promote a faith or offer humanitarian aid.
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| delegate |
Used to describe a person chosen or elected to represent a group of people, often at conferences or political gatherings.
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| envoy |
Refers to a diplomat or official representative sent on a specific mission, often to negotiate or communicate between governments.
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| representative |
A general term for someone who acts on behalf of another person or group in various settings, such as business, politics, or organizations.
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Examples of usage
- The new missioner to the United Nations is highly experienced in international relations.
- She was chosen as the missioner for the peacekeeping operation in the conflict zone.
religion
A person who is sent on a religious mission, especially to spread a particular faith or belief.
Synonyms
apostle, evangelist, missionary.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| missioner |
Another British English term that can refer specifically to a religious mission or more generally to someone dedicated to a purposeful task. Note that 'missioner' and 'missionary' are often used interchangeably, with 'missioner' being the less common variant.
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| missionary |
This word is most commonly used to describe someone sent on a religious mission, especially to promote Christianity in foreign countries. It can also be used for someone sent on a philanthropic or educational mission.
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| evangelist |
Usually referring to someone who seeks to convert others to the Christian faith through preaching. In a broader sense, it can describe someone who strongly promotes a cause or product.
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| apostle |
This term is often used in a religious context, especially referring to the original disciples of Jesus in Christianity. It can also be used more generally to describe a passionate advocate or leader of a new movement.
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Examples of usage
- The missioner traveled to remote villages to share the teachings of his religion.
- She dedicated her life as a missioner in a foreign country to help the less fortunate.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'missioner' has roots in Latin from the word 'missio', meaning 'to send', highlighting the idea of being sent to accomplish a task.
- During the Age of Exploration, many missioners traveled to new lands to spread religion and education, significantly impacting different cultures.
- The concept of missioners can be traced back to early Christian movements in the 1st century, who traveled to share their faith.
Cultural Impact
- In many cultures, missioners played vital roles in establishing schools and hospitals, bridging gaps between different societal needs.
- The works of missioners often reflect a mix of cultural exchange, where they adopted local customs while sharing their beliefs.
- Movies and literature often depict missioners as adventurous characters, showcasing their dedication in exotic locations.
Modern Context
- Today, missioners continue to help communities globally, focusing on social justice, health, and education in various parts of the world.
- Many organizations send volunteer missioners to disaster-stricken areas to provide immediate relief and long-term support.
- The role of missioners has evolved with technology, allowing them to utilize social media and digital communication to reach wider audiences.
Psychology
- Research shows that missioners often experience personal growth and fulfillment through their dedication to helping others.
- The altruistic behavior of missioners can inspire empathy and community involvement in others, sparking more individuals to participate in volunteer work.
- Their experiences can lead to a heightened sense of purpose and identity, shaping how they view their place in the world.
Literature
- Numerous novels and biographies highlight the journeys and challenges faced by missioners, emphasizing their persistence and devotion.
- Literary depictions of missioners often explore themes of sacrifice, morality, and the complexities of cultural interactions.
- Writers like Joseph Conrad and Graham Greene have depicted missioners in their works, often grappling with the ethical implications of their presence in foreign lands.
Origin of 'missioner'
The word 'missioner' originated from the Latin word 'missio' meaning 'a sending off' or 'dispatch'. It first appeared in English in the late 16th century. The term evolved to represent individuals appointed for specific tasks, whether in government or religious contexts.
See also: intermission, missionary, missions.