mɛlˈkaɪt, ˈmɛlkaɪt

Definitions

1. noun

A member of a Christian sect in Syria and Lebanon that originated in the 18th century

“The melchites were known for their distinctive liturgical practices and adherence to the Eastern Orthodox Church.”

2. noun

A member of a Christian community in the Holy Land that dates back to the 2nd century AD and was initially in communion with the Church of Rome but later became part of the Eastern Orthodox Church

“The melchites have a long and complex history, with their roots in the early Christian communities of the Holy Land.”