national church

American  

noun

1. an independent church within a country, usually representing the prevalent religion.

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Etymology

Origin of national church

First recorded in 1645–55

Example Sentences

As a Presbyterian, he was no longer marginalized but could identify with the Scottish national church.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

Ukrainians who favored recognition for a national church in tandem with Ukraine’s political independence from the former Soviet Union had long sought such approval.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 25, 2022

In England there was a shaky national church, which Elizabeth’s father, Henry VIII, had made himself head of, splitting the country in two.

From New York Times • Mar. 10, 2021

The new voter outreach is casting a wide net, relying on an emerging national church initiative, the help of high-profile clergy plus social media and broadcast outlets.

From Washington Times • May 5, 2016

Following the Via S. Agostino by the medi�val Torre Sanguinea, whose name bears witness to the medi�val frays of popes and anti-popes, we reach the German national church of Sta.

From Walks in Rome by Hare, Augustus J. C.