English Reference
noun

gospel

n.
US /ˈɡɑspəɫ/ UK /ɡˈɒspəl/ gospel UK spelling Gospels

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Religion

    one of the four books in the Bible about the life and teachings of Jesus.

    one of the first four books of the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John) detailing the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

    Simple

    The priest read a passage from the Gospel of Mark during the service.

    In context

    Scholars often compare the three synoptic Gospels to identify shared oral traditions and unique theological perspectives.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Informal

    something that is accepted as being completely true or a rule that must be followed.

    a set of principles or a statement regarded as being absolutely authoritative or beyond doubt.

    Simple

    You shouldn't take everything the newspapers say as gospel.

    In context

    In the tech industry, his predictions were taken as gospel by investors who had seen him succeed time and again.

    Usage

    often used in the phrase 'take something as gospel'

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Music

    a style of religious music that comes from the African-American church.

    a genre of Christian music characterized by dominant vocals and strong use of harmony, originating in the religious revival movements of the United States.

    Simple

    The choir sang a beautiful gospel song that made everyone feel happy.

    In context

    The festival featured a variety of performers, ranging from traditional gospel choirs to modern artists who blend the genre with soul and R&B.

I didn’t know anything about any type of music other than gospel.

The Guardian· 10 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated