papacy
|pa-pa-cy|
/ˈpeɪpəsi/
office of the pope
Etymology
'papacy' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'papatus', ultimately from Greek 'pappas', where 'pappas' meant 'father'.
'papacy' changed from Old French 'papauté' and Middle English 'papacie' and eventually became the modern English word 'papacy'.
Initially, it meant 'the office or dignity associated with a pope (literally "father")', but over time it evolved into its current sense of 'the office, jurisdiction, and administration of the pope'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the office, authority, or dignity of the Pope.
Many decisions about doctrine are reserved to the papacy.
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Noun 2
the period during which a particular pope holds office (the reign or tenure of a pope).
During his papacy he visited several countries to promote interfaith dialogue.
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Noun 3
the government, administration, or institutional structure associated with the Pope (often referring to the Holy See).
The papacy issued new guidelines on diplomatic relations.
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Last updated: 2025/11/01 00:09