1. Plural of pietist; members of a Christian movement emphasizing personal devotion, emotional experience, and moral living over formal doctrine and ritual.
Usage: Often capitalized when referring to the historical Pietist movement of 17th–18th century Germany and Scandinavia; Can be used descriptively for any devout or religiously earnest person

Examples

• The pietists of 18th-century Germany sought a more personal relationship with God.
• Many pietists rejected elaborate church ceremonies in favor of simple prayer and Bible study.
• The movement attracted pietists who believed faith should transform daily behavior.
• Early American settlers included pietists fleeing religious persecution in Europe.
• Pietists emphasized inner spiritual experience rather than institutional authority.