# congregational

/ˌkɑŋɡɹəˈɡeɪʃənəɫ/ (US) · /kˌɒŋɡɹɪɡˈeɪʃənəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/congregational
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

relating to a group of people who meet for religious worship. It describes things that belong to or involve everyone in a church group rather than just the leaders.

For teachers: relating to a congregation, especially regarding the members of a local church. Often describes activities or governance involving the entire body of worshippers.

## Examples

- The whole church joined in the congregational singing.
- The board decided to hold a congregational vote to choose the new minister for the parish.
- While some traditions centralize authority in a single leader, this denomination follows a congregational model where local members maintain autonomy over their own financial and spiritual affairs.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun like 'singing', 'prayer', or 'meeting'.

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