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Novitiate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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novitiate

[noʊˈvɪʃɪət ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

religious training

The novitiate is a period of training and probation for a person wishing to join a religious order. During this time, the individual learns about the principles and practices of the order, undergoes spiritual formation, and prepares for vows.

Synonyms

initiation, probation, training period.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
novitiate

Used primarily in religious contexts, referring to the period during which a novice undergoes training and preparation for entering a religious order.

  • Her novitiate at the convent lasted for two years before she took her vows.
  • During his novitiate, he learned the traditions and daily routines of monastic life.
training period

A general term used across various fields to describe a set timeframe during which a person undergoes training to learn and develop necessary skills.

  • Her training period at the new job included several workshops and shadowing experienced staff.
  • The training period for new recruits lasts three months.
probation

Commonly used in professional, academic, or legal settings to describe a period of testing and evaluation, often with the implication of proving one's abilities or compliance with certain standards.

  • The employee is on a six-month probation to assess their performance.
  • Students may be placed on academic probation if their grades fall below a certain level.
initiation

Refers to the process of being formally introduced into a group, organization, or activity, often through a ceremony or specific rite.

  • The fraternity held a special ceremony for his initiation.
  • Her initiation into the club involved learning its history and values.

Examples of usage

  • The novitiate typically lasts one to two years.
  • She entered the novitiate to explore her calling to religious life.
  • During the novitiate, novices are guided by experienced members of the order.
  • After completing the novitiate, candidates may choose to take their vows.
  • The novitiate is an important step in the journey to becoming a full member of the religious community.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Religious Context

  • In many religious communities, a novitiate period allows individuals to discern their commitment before taking vows.
  • This period can last from six months to several years, depending on the community's rules.
  • Novitiates often engage in prayer, study, and community service as part of their training.

Literature

  • The concept of a novitiate appears in many literary works, symbolizing personal growth and transformation.
  • In stories, characters often start as novitiates and evolve into skilled practitioners, highlighting a journey of self-discovery.
  • Novitiates may be portrayed as innocent or naive, which creates a compelling narrative arc.

Psychology

  • Starting as a novice can trigger feelings of anxiety due to the pressure of learning something new.
  • The 'Dunning-Kruger effect' explains how novices may overestimate their abilities, which could lead to humorous situations.
  • Psychological studies suggest that experiencing the novitiate phase can enhance empathy and understanding in social contexts.

Cultural Significance

  • Novitiates are often celebrated in rituals, marking their transition and commitment to the community.
  • In various cultures, the novitiate stage is seen as a rite of passage, similar to apprenticeships in trades.
  • Many societies value mentorship, where experienced members guide novitiates through their learning process.

Origin of 'novitiate'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'novicius,' meaning 'new.'
  • It has been used since the 14th century to describe someone in the early stages of religious training.
  • Related words include 'novice,' which signifies a beginner in various fields or activities.

The word 'novitiate' originates from the Latin term 'novitiatus', which means 'state of being new'. In the context of religious orders, the novitiate has been a traditional stage of formation for individuals seeking to dedicate themselves to religious life. It dates back to medieval times when monastic communities established structured processes for training new members. Over the centuries, the novitiate has remained a significant part of religious life, providing a period of discernment and preparation for those committed to serving their faith.

See also: novices.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,269, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.