Iglesia Meaning and Definition
Iglesia
Pronunciation
/iˈɣeθi.ə/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A Christian church, especially a Catholic church in Latin America or the Philippines.
Examples
- The family attended the local iglesia for mass.
- The historic iglesia in the town square was a popular tourist attraction.
Synonyms
- Church
- Cathedral
Antonyms
- Synagogue
- Mosque
Additional Information
In Latin America, iglesia typically refers to a Catholic church, while in the Philippines, it can also refer to other Christian denominations. Iglesia is often a central part of community life, hosting various cultural and social events.
Iglesias can range from small, humble structures to grand, ornate buildings with intricate architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
Etymology
The word “Iglesia” comes from the Spanish language, derived from the Latin “ecclesia”, meaning “assembly” or “congregation”.
Usage Notes
In formal or official contexts, it’s common to use the full name of the iglesia, such as “Iglesia de San Juan”.
Cultural References
In literature and art, iglesias have been featured as iconic symbols of community and faith, often serving as a backdrop for important events or scenes.
In music, songs about iglesias often evoke a sense of nostalgia and cultural heritage.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Ir a la iglesia” means “to go to church” in Spanish.
Related Words or Phrases
- Religión (religion)
- Culto (worship)
- Obispo (bishop)
Collocations
- iglesia católica (Catholic church)
- iglesia protestante (Protestant church)
- iglesia de San Juan (St. John’s church)
Frequency of Use
Average usage: 5-10% in modern language, with variations depending on the region and cultural context.
Common Misspellings
- Gebera
- Iglesio
- Iglesias (correct; refers to the plural form)