Church Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/tʃɜːrtʃ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A church is a building or organization where Christians worship, offer prayers, and participate in religious ceremonies and activities.

Examples

1. “The church bell rang loud on Sundays.”

2. “The priest delivered a sermon at the church.”

Synonyms

1. Cathedral

2. Sanctuary

Antonyms

1. Non-denominational space

2. Secular building

Etymology

The word “church” comes from the Old English word “circe,” meaning “circle,” referring to the round or circular shape of the early Christian places of worship.

Additional Information

Churches have been an integral part of human society for centuries, providing a sense of community, spiritual guidance, and emotional support to its members. They often serve as cultural and social hubs, hosting various events, festivals, and activities. Churches may be associated with specific denominations, such as Catholic, Protestant, or Orthodox, and their designs and architecture can reflect local and regional characteristics.

Churches often have distinct features, such as steeples, domes, arches, and stained-glass windows, which contribute to their unique aesthetic appeal. Many churches are historical landmarks, showcasing magnificent examples of architectural styles and artistic expressions. The role of the church has evolved over time, incorporating social welfare programs, educational initiatives, and community services, making them multifaceted institutions that go beyond mere places of worship.

Churches are known for their rich history, cultural significance, and spiritual importance, attracting millions of visitors and pilgrims from around the world. They have inspired countless works of art, literature, and music, as seen in the numerous depictions of churches in art, literature, and film.

Usage Notes

The word “church” is commonly used in formal and informal contexts, including in names of institutions, organizations, and events. It’s essential to use the correct form of the word, “church,” when referring to a place of worship, rather than its plural form “churches,” which can lead to ambiguity or confusion.

Cultural References

Churches have been depicted in various forms of media, including films like “The Last Temptation of Christ” and “The Da Vinci Code,” and books like “The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer. Iconic churches, such as Notre-Dame de Paris and St. Peter’s Basilica, have inspired numerous works of art and literature.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

1. “Church and state” – a common phrase referring to the separation of the institution of the church from the institution of the state.

2. “Church bells” – a phrase used to describe a series of loud, ringing sounds often associated with the ringing of church bells.

Related Words or Phrases

1. Chapel – a smaller church or a part of a large church.

2. Cathedral – a large church, typically affiliated with a local bishop.

Collocations

1. Church hall – a community center or social hall attached to a church.

2. Church organ – a musical instrument typically used in church services.

Frequency of Use

The word “church” is commonly used in everyday conversation, particularly in formal and spiritual contexts, although its usage may vary in different regions and cultures.

Common Misspellings

Church (proper spelling), Chuurch (typical misspelling)