an epithet (from their stature) of four Nitrian monks, named Dioscurus, Ammonins, Eusebius, and Euthymius, who were reluctantly induced by Theophilus, the patriarch of Alexandria, to leave the desert and receive ordination. They were so disgusted during the troubles of the time. of Chrysostomr. that they returned once more to their solitude, and although condemned and denounced, A.D. 401, and even personally attacked by Theophilus, they persisted in remaining there.