papal

[pey-puhl]

adjective

1. of or relating to the pope or the papacy.

   a papal visit to Canada.

2. of or relating to the Roman Catholic Church.

papal

/ ˈpeɪpəl /

adjective

1. of or relating to the pope or the papacy

Other Word Forms

• papally adverb
• antipapal adjective
• nonpapal adjective
• pseudopapal adjective
• unpapal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of papal¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English word from Medieval Latin word pāpālis. See pope, -al ¹

Example Sentences

German-born director Edward Berger, who brought his papal thriller “Conclave” to last year’s edition, returns with a strikingly different film in “Ballad of a Small Player.”

From Los Angeles Times

There has been speculation over Leo's first international destination, as early papal trips often define the tone of a pontificate.

From BBC

Whether the lunch becomes a footnote in papal history or a touchstone for others will depend on how religious and political leaders respond.

From Salon

Beijing insists that the state must approve the appointment of bishops in China, running contrary to the Catholic Church's insistence that it is a papal decision.

From BBC

Her entrance is positively papal, and as Abby surveys the scene, a graphic lands on the screen: Seattle Day One, a time frame we’ve already lived from Ellie’s point of view.

From Los Angeles Times