1830, coined by religion founder Joseph Smith (1805-1844) in Seneca County, N.Y., from Mormon, supposed prophet and author of "The Book of Mormon," explained by Smith as meaning more mon, from English more + Egyptian mon "good." As an adjective by 1842. Related: Mormonism.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints; a religion that originated in the United States in the nineteenth century, with teachings based on the Bible and the Book of Mormon. In Mormon belief, the Book of Mormon was revealed to the founder of the church, Joseph Smith, in the early nineteenth century. When the beliefs of the Mormons brought them into conflict with some of their neighbors, they moved to western territories under the leadership of Brigham Young.
Note: The land the Mormons eventually settled in the West became the state of Utah, where Mormons still form a majority.
Note: The Mormons were once controversial because they engaged in polygamy, but the church no longer sanctions the practice.