Lollard meaning

A Lollard was a follower of John Wycliffe who criticized the practices of the Catholic Church.


Lollard definitions

Word backwards dralloL
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division Lol-lard
Plural The plural of the word Lollard is Lollards.
Total letters 7
Vogais (2) o,a
Consonants (4) l,r,d

Lollard was a medieval religious movement that emerged in the 14th century in England. Followers of the Lollard movement, known as Lollards, were primarily influenced by the teachings of John Wycliffe, an English theologian and reformer. Lollard beliefs challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and emphasized the importance of individual interpretation of the Bible.

Origins and Beliefs

The term "Lollard" is believed to have originated from the Dutch word "lollaert," which means "mumbler" or "mutterer." This derogatory term was used to describe those who were considered heretics by the Catholic Church. Lollards believed in the importance of personal piety, rejecting many of the practices and doctrines of the Catholic Church, including the veneration of saints, pilgrimages, and the sacraments.

Persecution and Spread

Due to their radical beliefs, Lollards faced persecution from both the Church and the state. Many Lollards were arrested, tried as heretics, and even executed for their beliefs. Despite these challenges, the Lollard movement continued to spread throughout England, gaining followers among peasants, artisans, and even some nobles.

Influence and Legacy

The Lollard movement had a significant impact on the religious landscape of England. Their emphasis on individual interpretation of the Bible and rejection of traditional church practices paved the way for the Protestant Reformation that would follow in the 16th century. While the Lollard movement itself eventually declined, its ideals continued to influence later reformers and religious thinkers.

In conclusion, the Lollard movement was a crucial precursor to the Protestant Reformation, challenging the authority of the Catholic Church and promoting the idea of personal piety and direct engagement with scripture. Despite facing persecution and opposition, the Lollards made a lasting impact on religious thought in England and beyond.


Lollard Examples

  1. The Lollard preacher faced persecution for his beliefs.
  2. Lollard manuscripts provided insights into medieval religious dissent.
  3. The Lollard movement emerged as a critique of the Catholic Church.
  4. John Wycliffe was a prominent figure in the Lollard movement.
  5. The Lollard teachings spread throughout England in the 14th century.
  6. Lollard beliefs challenged traditional Catholic practices.
  7. Lollard followers faced accusations of heresy.
  8. The Lollard movement influenced later religious reformers.
  9. Lollard literature was an important component of dissent in medieval England.
  10. Lollard ideas contributed to the development of Protestantism.


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  • Updated 02/05/2024 - 10:38:31