Word
apostolic
Phoneticsapos·tolic
US/ˌæpəˈstɔɫɪk/
UK/ɐpəstˈɒlɪk/
Definition
adj. relating to the original followers of Jesus or the traditions they started. It often describes the authority or history of a church leader.
adj. relating to the Apostles of the New Testament or their teachings and authority. Often used to describe the historical continuity or succession of church leadership.
Examples
“The bishop claims apostolic authority for his decisions.”
“The church maintains that its traditions have been passed down through an unbroken apostolic succession since the first century.”
“Scholars debated whether the newly discovered manuscript truly reflected apostolic teaching or if it was a later addition to the religious canon.”
Examples
simple
“The bishop claims apostolic authority for his decisions.”
contextual
“The church maintains that its traditions have been passed down through an unbroken apostolic succession since the first century.”
complex
“Scholars debated whether the newly discovered manuscript truly reflected apostolic teaching or if it was a later addition to the religious canon.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun; often capitalised when referring to specific historical periods or offices.
Real-World Examples
“The Pope's first event since his lung cancer diagnosis and surgery saw him recite the traditional Angelus prayer from the balcony of the Apostolic Palace.” “Chivayo regularly attended the Johane Masowe weChishanu African apostolic church, one of the biggest in Zimbabwe, whose followers can often be seen worshipping outdoors wearing white robes.” “Her recognition beyond campus included an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis for her 100th birthday and an award from former President Joe Biden recognizing her service when she turned 105.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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