autocephalous (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Adjective

Phonetic Transcription

/ˌɔː.təˈsɛf.əl.əs/

Meaning and Usage

The term "autocephalous" refers to a church or religious organization that governs itself independently, without being subject to the authority of a higher church hierarchy. In particular, it is often used in the context of Orthodox Christianity to describe a national church that has achieved autonomy.

Frequency of Use: The word is relatively specialized and is more frequently used in written contexts, particularly in theological discussions, church governance, and academic texts related to religious studies.

Example Sentences

1. The Orthodox Church in Russia is considered autocephalous, having its own governing body and leadership.

2. Русская православная церковь считается автокефальной, имея собственный управляющий орган и руководство.

3. The recognition of an autocephalous status can lead to significant diplomatic relations between different Orthodox churches.

4. Признание статуса автокефалии может привести к значительным дипломатическим отношениям между различными православными церквями.

5. The debate over which church should be considered autocephalous has caused rifts among Eastern Orthodox Christians.

6. Споры о том, какая церковь должна считаться автокефальной, вызвали расколы среди восточных православных христиан.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "autocephalous" itself may not feature prominently in idiomatic expressions, it is often used in phrases related to church governance and autonomy. Here are a few relevant expressions:

1. "The autocephalous nature of the church allows it to make decisions independent of external influences."

2. Автокефальный характер церкви позволяет ей принимать решения независимо от внешних влияний.

3. "Seeking autocephalous status has been a long-standing goal for many national churches."

4. Достижение автокефального статуса было долгосрочной целью для многих национальных церквей.

5. "The dynamics of autocephalous churches often shape the political landscape of the regions they inhabit."

6. Динамика автокефальных церквей часто формирует политический ландшафт регионов, в которых они находятся.

7. "Disputes over autocephalous legitimacy can lead to schisms within larger religious communities."

8. Споры о законности автокефалии могут привести к расколам в более крупных религиозных общинах.

Etymology

The term "autocephalous" comes from the Greek word "αὐτοκέφαλος" (autoképhalos), where "αὐτό" (auto) means "self" and "κεφαλή" (kephalē) means "head." Thus, it literally translates to "self-headed" or having its own head or leader, signifying independence in governance.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Independent - Autonomous - Self-governing

Antonyms: - Dependent - Subordinate - Controlled

This comprehensive exploration of the term "autocephalous" covers its meaning, usage, relevant idioms, and historical background, providing a thorough understanding of the word within its context.