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apostolical

apostolical

9.9
Relating to the pope or to the pope's authority
  • adjective
  • /ˌæpəˈstɑlɪkəl/
  • Formal
translation icon : apostólico
  • The apostolical authority of the pope is recognized by millions.

Examples

  • The council debated measures within their apostolical powers.

  • He claimed apostolical succession as the basis for his office.

  • The new decree was issued under apostolical authority.

  • Many believe that the apostolical succession is vital for the Church.

  • The pope's decisions are often considered to have apostolical authority within the church.

  • The apostolical teachings of the Catholic Church are based on the scriptures and traditions.

  • Many believe that the apostolical lineage of bishops is essential for the legitimacy of their ordination.

Synonyms

papal
vsapostolical
23 7.9

Relating to the pope or his office

focuses on origin from the Apostles rather than general acts by the pope
apostolic
vsapostolical
5 9.4

Relating to the pope or his authority in the Catholic Church

is a variant spelling used for the same papal succession meaning
pontifical
vsapostolical
  • Formal
3 9.7

Relating to a bishop, the pope, or church ceremonies

emphasises origin from the Apostles rather than ritual or ceremonial aspects

Surface Forms

apostolical positive

Morphology

apostolical = apostolic (semi-transparent) = apostle + ic + al

Formally derived from 'apostolic', but the specialized ecclesiastical sense ('papal' or 'proceeding from the pope as successor of the Apostles') requires specific religious knowledge and may not be obvious to all learners.

Etymology

Apostolical can also mean 'papal'. This is because the pope is seen as the one who follows the Apostles and keeps their authority, so apostolical can mean 'from the Pope' or about papal power.