THEATINE
The"a*tin, The"a*tine, n. Etym: [F. théatin, It. theatino.] (R. C.
Ch.)
1. One of an order of Italian monks, established in 1524, expressly
to oppose Reformation, and to raise the tone of piety among Roman
Catholics. They hold no property, nor do they beg, but depend on what
Providence sends. Their chief employment is preaching and giving
religious instruction.
Note: Their name is derived from Theate, or Chieti, a city of Naples,
the archbishop of which was a principal founder of the order; but
they bore various names; as, Regular Clerks of the Community, Pauline
Monks, Apostolic Clerks, and Regular Clerks of the Divine Providence.
The order never flourished much out of Italy.
2. (R. C. Ch.)
Definition: One of an order of nuns founded by Ursula Benincasa, who died
in 1618.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition