Lē'vite, n.

n. [Fr. Lévite, Lat. Levites, Gr. Λευίτης, from Heb. Levi, one of the sons of Jacob.]

1. (Jewish Hist.) One of the tribe or family of Levi; a descendant of Levi; especially, one of those in the tribe employed in various duties connected with the tabernacle first, and afterward the temple, such as the care of the building, the bringing of wood and other necessaries for the sacrifices, the music of the services, &c. The Levites were subordinate to the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who was also of the family of Levi.
2. A priest;—so called in contempt or ridicule.