conventicle

The word "conventicle" originally referred to an often illegal religious meeting held outside the official church—especially gatherings of Protestant nonconformists in Britain in the 1600s. Because these meetings could be treated as unlawful, they were typically held in secret, hidden away from authorities. Think dimly lit barns, remote forests, or private homes – places where worshippers could practice their faith without fear of persecution.

Over time, the meaning of "conventicle" broadened. While it still retains its historical connection to religious dissent, it can now describe any small group of people who meet regularly and share a common interest, especially if that interest is somewhat unconventional or exclusive. It suggests a sense of intimacy and shared belief, often with an implication of being separate from the mainstream.

You might read in a historical novel about "the conventicle of poets" meeting secretly to share their verses, or hear someone describe a group of dedicated stamp collectors as forming a "little conventicle" of enthusiasts. The word carries a slightly archaic and literary flavor, suggesting something hidden, intimate, and perhaps even rebellious. It's not just any gathering; it's a close-knit community bound by shared passions and often operating on the fringes of accepted norms.