\The"a*tin\, Theatine \The"a*tine\, n. [F. th['e]atin,
It. theatino.] (R. C. Ch.)
1. One of an order of Italian monks, established in 1524,
   expressly to oppose Reformation, and to raise the tone of
   piety among Roman Catholics. They hold no property, nor do
   they beg, but depend on what Providence sends. Their chief
   employment is preaching and giving religious instruction.
Note: Their name is derived from Theate, or Chieti, a city of
      Naples, the archbishop of which was a principal founder
      of the order; but they bore various names; as, Regular
      Clerks of the Community, Pauline Monks, Apostolic
      Clerks, and Regular Clerks of the Divine Providence.
      The order never flourished much out of Italy.
2. (R. C. Ch.) One of an order of nuns founded by Ursula
   Benincasa, who died in 1618.