The name given by the Greeks or Romans, probably in reproach, to the followers of Jesus. It was first used at Antioch. The names by which the disciples were known among themselves were "brethren," "the faithful," "elect," "saints," "believers." But as distinguishing them from the multitude without, the name "Christian" came into use, and was universally accepted. This name occurs but three times in the New Testament (Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16).

Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (n.) One who believes, or professes or is assumed to believe, in Jesus Christ, and the truth as taught by Him; especially, one whose inward and outward life is conformed to the doctrines of Christ.

2. (n.) One born in a Christian country or of Christian parents, and who has not definitely becomes an adherent of an opposing system.

3. (n.) One of a Christian denomination which rejects human creeds as bases of fellowship, and sectarian names. They are congregational in church government, and baptize by immersion. They are also called Disciples of Christ, and Campbellites.

4. (n.) One of a sect (called Christian Connection) of open-communion immersionists. The Bible is their only authoritative rule of faith and practice.

5. (a.) Pertaining to Christ or his religion; as, Christian people.

6. (a.) Pertaining to the church; ecclesiastical; as, a Christian court.

7. (a.) Characteristic of Christian people; civilized; kind; kindly; gentle; beneficent.