1. relating to knowledge, especially esoteric mystical knowledge
2. relating to Gnosticism, an early Christian heretical movement emphasizing salvation through secret knowledge
Usage: historical; religious

1. a person who believes that salvation comes through secret knowledge rather than faith
Usage: historical; religious
2. an adherent of Gnosticism
Usage: historical; religious

Examples

• The gnostic texts were discovered in Egypt in 1945.
• She studied the gnostic traditions of early Christianity.
• The gnostic believed that spiritual knowledge was more important than faith.
• Many gnostic writings were considered heretical by the early church.
• The professor explained gnostic philosophy to his students.
• Ancient gnostics sought enlightenment through secret teachings.
• The gnostic movement influenced various mystical traditions.