noun, plural beads·men. Archaic.
- a person who prays for another as a duty, especially when paid.
- an inmate of a poorhouse; almsman.
noun plural -men
- a person who prays for another’s soul, esp one paid or fed for doing so
- a person kept in an almshouse
“one who prays for another’s benefit,” early 13c.; see bead (n.) + man (n.).