presbyterian
|pres-by-ter-i-an|
🇺🇸
/ˌprɛz.bəˈtɪr.i.ən/
🇬🇧
/ˌprɛz.bɪˈtɪə.ri.ən/
of or relating to elders / the Presbyterian Church
Etymology
'presbyterian' originates from New Latin 'presbyterianus', where 'presbyter' (from Greek 'presbyteros') meant 'elder'.
'presbyterian' developed from New Latin 'presbyterianus' into Early Modern English and was adopted in English to name the church movement and its members (16th–17th centuries).
Initially it referred to 'of or relating to elders (presbyters)'; over time it came to refer specifically to the Protestant denomination and things relating to that church (the Presbyterian Church).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a member of the Presbyterian Church or of a church governed by elders (presbyters).
She is a devout Presbyterian who attends Sunday services regularly.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a supporter or adherent of Presbyterianism (the Protestant movement and theology associated with churches governed by elders).
Historically, many Scots were Presbyterians and helped spread the denomination abroad.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to the Presbyterian Church or its doctrines, practices, or organization.
The congregation followed a distinct Presbyterian liturgy.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/28 14:02