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Sect Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sect

[sekt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

religious

A group of people with somewhat different religious beliefs from those of a larger group to which they belong.

Synonyms

denomination, religious group, religious sect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sect

Same as the first entry; often used interchangeably with 'sect'.

  • The small sect believes in a very different interpretation of the scriptures.
  • He joined a sect that practices strict fasting.
religious group

A general term for any group of people who share the same religious beliefs and practices, without any connotation.

  • The religious group met every Sunday for prayer.
  • Various religious groups participated in the charity event.
religious sect

Specifically refers to a subgroup that has distinct, often separated, beliefs from the larger religious group. It can carry a slightly negative or controversial connotation.

  • The religious sect has strict and unique practices.
  • Many members of the religious sect live in isolation.
denomination

Used for different branches or groups within a larger religion, typically referring to well-established and widely accepted groups.

  • The Baptists are a denomination within Christianity.
  • She belongs to a denomination that emphasizes community service.

Examples of usage

  • He broke away from the main sect to form his own religious group.
  • The sect practices a form of meditation not found in mainstream religions.
Context #2 | Noun

social

A group with a distinctive doctrine, belief, or practice.

Synonyms

faction, group, party.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sect

As 'sect' was already covered, its definition does not need to be repeated.
group

'Group' is a general term used for any number of people gathered together or having something in common. It is neutral and doesn't imply anything about the internal dynamics.

  • A group of friends went to the beach together.
  • The study group meets every Thursday.
faction

'Faction' is used when talking about a smaller, dissenting group within a larger organization, usually one that is competing with or opposed to other groups. It often implies conflict or rivalry.

  • There was a lot of tension between the different factions within the political party.
  • A faction of the club wanted to change the rules.
party

'Party' is used when referring to a formally organized political group that contests elections and aims to govern a country. It can also refer to a social event. The political meaning does not carry negative connotations, while the social meaning is neutral and positive.

  • The Democratic Party won the majority of seats in the election.
  • We had a great time at the birthday party.

Examples of usage

  • The political sect was known for its extreme views on taxation.
  • The sect was founded on the principles of non-violence and equality.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • Throughout history, many religious sects have formed in response to perceived corruption in larger parent religions.
  • The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century led to the emergence of numerous sects breaking away from the Catholic Church.

Sociology

  • Sects often form around charismatic leaders who provide guidance and interpretation of beliefs.
  • They can vary significantly in size, from a few dozen to thousands of members, illustrating diverse expressions of belief.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies and books explore the theme of sects, often portraying them as mysterious or controlling, like in 'The Village'.
  • Fictional sects appear in various media, symbolizing isolation and unique philosophies, as seen in series like 'Lost'.

Psychology

  • Joining a sect can fulfill social needs, providing belonging and community to individuals seeking connection.
  • Studies show that emotionally vulnerable individuals may be more susceptible to recruitment by sects, highlighting the psychological aspects of belief.

Origin of 'sect'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin term 'secta', meaning a path or way.
  • In old English, it was used to refer to followers of particular philosophical schools.

The word 'sect' originated from the Latin word 'secta' meaning 'a way, road, path, course of action'. The term gradually evolved to refer to a group of people with specific beliefs or practices, often diverging from mainstream ideologies. Throughout history, sects have played significant roles in various religious, social, and political movements.

See also: dissect, dissection, intersect, secant, sectarian, section, sections, sector.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,029 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.