noun
- a person, typically poor or elderly, supported by a charitable institution or endowment to pray for the soul of a benefactor
Usage: archaic; historical; chiefly British
Examples
- The bedeman lived in the almshouse and recited prayers daily for the founder's soul.
- Medieval bequests often included provisions for bedemen to maintain spiritual intercession.
- The church maintained a small group of bedemen who were supported by endowed funds.
- As a bedeman, he received modest lodging and sustenance in exchange for his devotions.