beadsman

== English == === Alternative forms === bedesman === Etymology === From earlier bedeman, from Middle English bedeman (“a petitioner”), equivalent to bead (“request, petition, prayer”) +‎ -man. === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˈbiːdzmən/ === Noun === beadsman (plural beadsmen) (historical) A petitioner; someone who seeks some type of favour from another, usually from a superior. A man employed in praying; especially one who prays for another. (historical, England) A poor man, supported in a beadhouse, and required to pray for the soul of its founder; an almsman. (Scotland, historical) A public almsman; one who received alms from the king, and was expected in return to pray for the royal welfare and that of the state; a licensed beggar. ==== Related terms ==== beadswoman === References === === Anagrams === bad names