sect
SEKT
/sɛkt/
A group of people with somewhat different religious or political beliefs from those of a larger group to which they belong.
Focuses on the organizational or doctrinal breakaway from a parent religious or political tradition.
The story behind the word. The Latin root 'secta' comes from 'sequi', meaning 'to follow'—literally referring to a group of people following a specific path or leader. Late Latin writers used it to translate Greek philosophical schools, and by the Middle Ages, it designated offshoots of major religions that followed distinct doctrines.
Word relationships
- faction: 'Faction' usually applies to political or organizational infighting, while 'sect' leans toward religious offshoots.
- denomination: 'Denomination' implies a large, recognized, and accepted branch of a main religion.
- orthodoxy: Refers to the central, traditional body of core beliefs.
Commonly confused with
- cult: A sect maintains ties to a traditional parent framework, whereas a cult is often built around a single authoritarian personality.
Word family
- sectarian (adjective): Rigidly devoted to a particular sect or faction; narrow-minded.
- sectarianism (noun): Excessive devotion to a particular religious or political group.
Collocations
- religious sect
- heretical sect
- splinter sect
- minority sect
Example sentences
- "An obscure Jewish sect in the first century eventually developed into Christianity." Religious history
- "The political party splintered into various radical sects after the leader lost the election." Political analysis
Memory hook
A SECT SECTions off from the main church path to follow its own route. Followers who sectioned off.
When not to use
Avoid using for completely independent, newly invented spiritual movements with no historical parent body.
Fun facts
- Though 'sect' sounds like 'section' (from Latin 'secare', to cut), etymologists confirm it actually derives from 'sequi' (to follow).
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