conventicle

noun con·ven·ti·cle \kən-ˈven-ti-kəl\

Definition of CONVENTICLE

: an assembly of an irregular or unlawful character

: an assembly for religious worship; especially : a secret meeting for worship not sanctioned by law

— con·ven·ti·cler \-k(ə-)lər\ noun

Middle English, from Latin conventiculum, diminutive of conventus assembly

First Known Use: 14th century

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