sectarial (sektarial)

[ use. Ksectary sectarian (sek-tā'ri-an), a. and n. (ML. sectarius) + -an.] I. a. 1. Of or pertaining to a sect or sects; peculiar to a sect: as, sectarian interests; sectarian principles. 2. That inculcates the particular tenets of a sect: as, sectarian instruction; a sectarian book. -3. Of or pertaining to one who is bigotedly attached to a particular sect; characterized by or characteristic of bigoted attachment to a particular sect or its teachings, interests, etc. Zeal for some opinion, or some party, beareth out men of sectarian and factious spirits in such practices [as slander). Barrow, Works, Sermon xviii. The chief cause of sectarian animosity is the incapacity of most men to conceive systems in the light in which they appear to their adherents, and to enter into the enthusiasm they inspire. Lecky, Europ. Morals, I. 141. II. n. One of a sect; especially, a person who attaches exce ive importance or is bigotedly attached to the tenets and interests of a sect. But hardly le censurable, hardly le contemptible, is the tranquilly arrogant sectarian , who denies that wisdom or honesty can exist beyond the limits of his own ill-light Landor , Imaginary Conversations, Lucian and Timotheus. =Syn. See heretic . ed chamber.