cathedra

[kuh-thee-druh, kath-i-]

noun

plural

cathedrae 

1. the seat or throne of a bishop in the principal church of a diocese.

2. an official chair, as of a professor in a university.

3. an ancient Roman chair used by women, having an inclined, curved back and curved legs flaring outward: the Roman copy of the Greek klismos.

cathedra

/ kəˈθiːdrə /

noun

1. a bishop's throne

2. the office or rank of a bishop

3. See ex cathedra

Word History and Origins

Origin of cathedra¹

1625–35; < Latin < Greek kathédra, derivative of kathézomai to sit down; cata-, sit ¹; chair

Word History and Origins

Origin of cathedra¹

from Latin: chair

Example Sentences

Popes wield such power that they can speak ex cathedra — literally, from the papal throne — to make infallible pronouncements on morality that the faithful must obey.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The last time a pope issued an ex cathedra decree was in 1950, when Pius XII made the assumption of Mary into heaven an article of faith.

Read more on Washington Post

Though Notre Dame has moved liturgically to a new home, Notre Dame will always remain Paris‘ cathedral - officials are at pains to point out - so long as the bishop’s physical chair, or “cathedra” doesn’t move.

Read more on Washington Times

Though Notre Dame has moved liturgically to a new home, Notre Dame will always remain Paris’ cathedral — officials are at pains to point out — so long as the bishop’s physical chair, or “cathedra” doesn’t move.

Read more on Seattle Times

The service will include traditions such as anointing Bishop Lane with oil, and she will sit in the cathedra - the bishop's seat - for the first time.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• armchair 
• bench 
• recliner