FRANCISCAN
Fran*cis"can, a. Etym: [LL. Franciscus Francis: cf. F. franciscain.]
(R. C. Ch.)
Defn: Belonging to the Order of St. Francis of the Franciscans. Franciscan Brothers, pious laymen who devote themselves to useful works, such as manual labor schools, and other educational institutions; — called also Brothers of the Third Order of St. Francis. — Franciscan Nuns, nuns who follow the rule of t. Francis, esp. those of the Second Order of St. Francis, — called also Poor Clares or Minoresses. — Franciscan Tertiaries, the Third Order of St. Francis.
FRANCISCAN
Fran*cis"can, n. (R.C.Ch.)
Defn: A monk or friar of the Order of St. Francis, a large and
zealous order of mendicant monks founded in 1209 by St. Francis of
Assisi. They are called also Friars Minor; and in England, Gray
Friars, because they wear a gray habit.
FRANCOLIN
Fran"co*lin, n. Etym: [F.; cf. It. francolino, Sp. francolin.]
(Zoöl.)
Defn: A spurred partidge of the genus Francolinus and allied genera, of Asia and Africa. The common species (F. vulgaris) was formerly common in southern Europe, but is now nearly restricted to Asia.
FRANCOLITE
Fran"co*lite, n. (Min.)
Defn: A variety of apatite from Wheal Franco in Devonshire.
FRANC-TIREUR Franc"-ti`reur", n. [F., fr. franc free + tireur shooter, fr. tirer to shoot.] (Mil.)
Defn: A French partisan soldier, or one belonging to a corps of detached light troops engaged in forays, skirmishes, scouting, etc.