adj Uncommon

apostolic

ap-uh-STOL-ihk

Apostolic (adj) means relating to the apostles or their teachings. Example: “The church traces its authority back through apostolic succession.”

adj

Relating to the apostles or their teachings.

"The church traces its authority back through apostolic succession."

Relating to the Pope or the papacy.

"The Vatican issued an apostolic letter on the matter."

How to Use Apostolic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishConnected to the apostles of early Christianity, or to the Pope's authority in Catholicism.

When to use it

Mostly used in religious, especially Catholic, contexts.

Common pairings

apostolic succession apostolic authority

Word Forms

apostolics plural

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The church traces its authority back through _____ succession.

Etymology

From Latin apostolicus, from Greek apostolikos, both derived from apostolos, "apostle."

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for apostolic

colic frolic Catholic systolic symbolic alcoholic metabolic parabolic workaholic melancholic

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “apostolic” mean?

The word “apostolic” means relating to the apostles or their teachings. In plain terms, connected to the apostles of early Christianity, or to the Pope's authority in Catholicism.

How do you pronounce “apostolic”?

“Apostolic” is pronounced ap-uh-STOL-ihk (/ˌæp.əˈstɑːl.ɪk/ in IPA).

How do you use “apostolic” in a sentence?

Here is “apostolic” used in a sentence: “The church traces its authority back through apostolic succession.”

What part of speech is “apostolic”?

“Apostolic” is an adjective.

Where does the word “apostolic” come from?

The word “apostolic” comes from Latin. From Latin apostolicus, from Greek apostolikos, both derived from apostolos, "apostle.".

Is “apostolic” a common word?

“Apostolic” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “apostolic” have?

“Apostolic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to the apostles or their teachings.