adj

apostolic

ap-uh-STOL-ihk

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

apostolics plural

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The church traces its authority back through _____ succession.

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

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