poor clares

1 definition found

poor clares - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Franciscan \Fran*cis"can\, a. [LL. Franciscus Francis: cf. F.
     franciscain.] (R. C. Ch.)
     Belonging to the Order of St. Francis of the Franciscans.
     [1913 Webster]
  
     Franciscan Brothers, pious laymen who devote themselves to
        useful works, such as manual labor schools, and other
        educational institutions; -- called also Brothers of the  Third Order of St. Francis
        .
  
     Franciscan Nuns, nuns who follow the rule of St. Francis,
        esp. those of the Second Order of St. Francis, -- called
        also Poor Clares or Minoresses.
  
     Franciscan Tertiaries, the Third Order of St. Francis.
        [1913 Webster]