# apostolic

/ˌæpəˈstɔɫɪk/ (US) · /ɐpəstˈɒlɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/apostolic
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

relating to the original followers of Jesus or the traditions they started. It often describes the authority or history of a church leader.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; often capitalised when referring to specific historical periods or offices.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.