Archiepiscopal – Definition & Meaning

Archiepiscopal is a term that is often used in religious contexts. It is a word that is associated with the highest level of authority within the Church. This article will provide a comprehensive definition of archiepiscopal, its origin, and its meaning in different dictionaries.

Definitions

Archiepiscopal is an adjective that is used to describe the highest level of authority within the Church. It refers to the office or rank of an archbishop. An archbishop is a bishop who has been given the authority to oversee a group of dioceses or provinces within a particular region.

Origin

The word archiepiscopal comes from the Greek word “archiepiskopos,” which means “chief bishop.” The term was first used in the early Christian Church to describe the bishop of a large city or region. Over time, the term came to be associated with the highest level of authority within the Church.

Meaning in different dictionaries

In the Oxford English Dictionary, archiepiscopal is defined as “relating to an archbishop or archbishopric.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “of or relating to an archbishop or his office.”

Associations

Archiepiscopal is often associated with the Roman Catholic Church, as well as with other Christian denominations that have a hierarchical structure. It is also associated with the concept of ecclesiastical authority and the power that comes with it.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of archiepiscopal include episcopal, hierarchical, and ecclesiastical.

Antonyms

Antonyms of archiepiscopal include lay, secular, and non-ecclesiastical.

The same root words

The same root words as archiepiscopal include archbishop, bishop, and episcopal.

Example Sentences

1. The archiepiscopal palace was a grand building that housed the archbishop and his staff.
2. The archiepiscopal authority was challenged by a group of dissident priests.
3. The archiepiscopal diocese was one of the largest in the country.
4. The archiepiscopal vestments were ornate and symbolized the authority of the archbishop.
5. The archiepiscopal council met regularly to discuss matters of importance to the Church.