I. ə̇ˈrastēən, ēˈr-, -schən adjective
Usage: usually capitalized
Etymology: Thomas Erast us (Lieber or Liebler) died 1583 German-Swiss physician and Zwinglian theologian + English -ian
1. : of or relating to the physician and theologian Erastus or his doctrines
2. : of, characterized by, or advocating Erastianism
an erastian doctrine of the relation of church and state
erastian arguments
II. noun
( -s )
Usage: usually capitalized
: a supporter of Erastian doctrines ; especially : an upholder of state supremacy in ecclesiastical affairs
the 17th century English Erastians