RECU'SANT, a. s as z. [L. recusans, recuso, to refuse; re and the root of causa, signifying to drive. The primary sense is to repel or drive back.]
Refusing to acknowledge the supremacy of the king, or to conform to the established rites of the church; as a recusant lord.
RECU'SANT, n. [supra.]
1. In English history, a person who refuses to acknowledge the supremacy of the king in matters of religion; as a popish recusant, who acknowledges the supremacy of the pope.
2. One who refuses communion with the church of England; a non-conformist.
All that are recusants of holy rites.
