I. ˈnästik noun
( -s )
Usage: usually capitalized
Etymology: Late Latin gnosticus, from Greek gnōstikos, adjective
: an adherent of gnosticism or of a philosophy or theology influenced by gnosticism ; especially : an adherent of any of several Gnostic sects of the 2d to 6th centuries adjudged heretical by the early Christian church
II. adjective
Etymology: Greek gnōstikos, from gnōstos known (from gignōskein to know) + -ikos -ic — more at know
1. : of, relating to, or characterized by knowledge or cognition : intellectual , knowing
2.
[ gnostic (I) ]
usually capitalized : of or relating to gnosticism or the Gnostics
3. : shrewd , clever
• gnos·ti·cal·ly -tə̇k(ə)lē adverb