\Fran*cis"can\, a. [LL. Franciscus Francis: cf. F.
franciscain.] (R. C. Ch.)
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.

\Fran*cis"can\, n. (R.C.Ch.)
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.