Cathedral Meaning and Definition
Cathedral
Pronunciation
/kædˈrɪəl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A large and elaborate church or a building used for worship, typically with a central nave and an apse, and often with stained glass windows and other ornate features.
Examples
- The cathedral in Rome is one of the most famous in the world.
- The architecture of the cathedral is a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Synonyms
- Basilica
- Church
Antonyms
- Chapel
- Mosque
Etymology
The word “cathedral” comes from the Latin phrase “cathedralis,” meaning “of the chair,” referring to the throne of a bishop.
Usage Notes
Cathedral can be used to refer to any large and elaborate church, but it is often specifically used to refer to a church with a special connection to a bishop or archbishop.
Cultural References
In the novel “The Da Vinci Code”, the protagonist Robert Langdon visits the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
A Cathedral of Learning refers to a large and impressive learning institution or a person with a great knowledge.
Related Words or Phrases
- Parish
- Minister
Collocations
- Stained glass
- Organ
Frequency of Use
The word “cathedral” is relatively rare in modern language, but it is still used in formal contexts such as literature and architecture.
Common Misspellings
- Catheder
- Kathedral