episcopal
|e-pis-co-pal|
/ɪˈpɪskəpəl/
relating to a bishop/overseer
Etymology
'episcopal' originates from Late Latin 'episcopalis', ultimately from Greek 'episkopos' meaning 'overseer'.
'episkopos' (Greek) passed into Latin as 'episcopus', then into Late Latin/Medieval Latin as 'episcopalis', entered Old French and Middle English and became the modern English 'episcopal'.
Initially it referred to an 'overseer' (a person); over time it developed into an adjective meaning 'relating to bishops' and came to be used for matters relating to the Episcopal Church.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a member of the Episcopal Church or (less commonly) a person holding episcopal office; used as a noun form of the adjective.
Many episcopal attended the regional synod to discuss church matters.
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Adjective 1
relating to a bishop or bishops; governed by bishops (ecclesiastical oversight by bishops).
The diocese followed an episcopal structure, with bishops overseeing local parishes.
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Adjective 2
of or relating to the Episcopal Church (especially the Anglican-derived church in the United States) or its practices.
She attends an episcopal service every Sunday.
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Last updated: 2025/10/27 05:34