1. (Rom. Antiq.)
Defn: Originally, a member of any of the families constituting the populus Romanus, or body of Roman citizens, before the development of the plebeian order; later, one who, by right of birth or by special privilege conferred, belonged to the nobility.
2. A person of high birth; a nobleman.
3. One familiar with the works of the Christian Fathers; one versed in patristic lore. [R.] Colridge.
PATRICIANISM
Pa*tri"cian*ism, n.
Defn: The rank or character of patricians.
PATRICIATE
Pa*tri"ci*ate, n.
Defn: The patrician class; the aristocracy; also, the office of patriarch. Milman.
PATRICIDAL
Pat*ri"ci`dal, a.
Defn: Of or pertaining to patricide; parricidal.