Word
ecumenical
Phoneticsec·u·meni·cal
US/ˌɛkjuˈmɛnɪkəɫ/
UK/ˌɛkjuːmˈɛnɪkəl/
UK spelling · oecumenical
Definition
adj. describing efforts to bring different religious groups together or to include many different ideas in one place.
adj. relating to or seeking to promote unity among different Christian denominations or diverse religious traditions. In a secular context, it describes a broad or inclusive approach that welcomes many different perspectives.
Examples
“The ecumenical meeting brought together leaders from many different churches.”
“The university prides itself on its ecumenical approach, welcoming students and faculty from all major religious backgrounds.”
“The ecumenical movement seeks to bridge centuries of doctrinal divides by focusing on shared social values and common goals for the global community.”
Examples
simple
“The ecumenical meeting brought together leaders from many different churches.”
contextual
“The university prides itself on its ecumenical approach, welcoming students and faculty from all major religious backgrounds.”
complex
“The ecumenical movement seeks to bridge centuries of doctrinal divides by focusing on shared social values and common goals for the global community.”
Real-World Examples
“I think Andy wants a kind of ecumenical or pluralistic party where we have debate.” “My sister, Janet Davies, who has died aged 89, dedicated most of her adult life to international development, ecumenical partnership and social justice.” Etymology
From ecumenic + -al. By surface analysis, ecumene + -ical.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.