cathedra

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

noun

, plural ca·the·drae [k, uh, -, thee, -dree, kath, -i-dree].

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

The one thing apparently impossible to him was to speak ex cathedra from heights of scientific erudition and attainment.

From Project Gutenberg

Their opinions are given with an ex cathedra air that seems to exclude any appeal against them.

From Project Gutenberg

The rationalistic philosophy of the Spanish Jews was there proclaimed ex cathedra.

From Project Gutenberg

The pope when teaching ex cathedra acts as head of the whole episcopal body and of the whole Church.

From Project Gutenberg

But when does the pope speak ex cathedra, and how is it to be distinguished when he is exercising his infallibility?

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• armchair
• bench
• recliner