# ecclesiastical

/ɪˌkɫiziˈæstɪkəɫ/ (US) · /ɪklˌiːzɪˈæstɪkəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ecclesiastical
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

relating to the Christian church or its priests. You use this word to describe things like church laws, history, or styles of building.

For teachers: relating to the Christian Church or its clergy. Often used to describe institutional, legal, or architectural aspects of religious organizations.

## Examples

- The museum has a large collection of ecclesiastical art.
- The architect specialized in ecclesiastical design, focusing on the restoration of medieval cathedrals and parish churches.
- The historian argued that ecclesiastical power in the Middle Ages was not merely spiritual but also functioned as a significant political force across Europe.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun.

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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.