Langimage
English

cathedral

|ca/the/dral|

B2

/kəˈθiːdrəl/

central church

Etymology
Etymology Information

'cathedral' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'cathedra,' where 'cathedra' meant 'seat' or 'chair.'

Historical Evolution

'cathedra' transformed into the Old French word 'catedral,' and eventually became the modern English word 'cathedral' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'the seat of a bishop,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a large and important church.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a large and important church that is the central church of a diocese, where a bishop has his seat.

The cathedral was built in the 12th century and is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39