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Coadjutor: meaning, definitions and examples

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coadjutor

 

[ koʊˈædʒʊtər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious context

A coadjutor is an assistant to a bishop who has the right to succeed him. This role is particularly significant in the Roman Catholic Church, where a coadjutor bishop is appointed to help the diocesan bishop. The title indicates that the coadjutor has the authority to act in the bishop's name and may eventually become the bishop of that diocese. This position is crucial in ensuring a smooth transition of leadership within the church hierarchy.

Synonyms

assistant bishop, auxiliary bishop, deputy

Examples of usage

  • The coadjutor bishop helped the diocese during the bishop's illness.
  • A coadjutor was appointed to ensure the continuity of leadership.
  • He served as coadjutor before becoming the diocese's leading bishop.

Translations

Translations of the word "coadjutor" in other languages:

🇵🇹 coadjutor

🇮🇳 सहायक

🇩🇪 Koadjutor

🇮🇩 koajutor

🇺🇦 коад'ютор

🇵🇱 koadjutor

🇯🇵 補佐官

🇫🇷 coadjuteur

🇪🇸 coadjutor

🇹🇷 yardımcı

🇰🇷 보좌관

🇸🇦 مساعد

🇨🇿 koadjutor

🇸🇰 koadjutor

🇨🇳 助手

🇸🇮 koadjutor

🇮🇸 aðstoðarmaður

🇰🇿 көмекші

🇬🇪 თანამშრომელი

🇦🇿 köməkçi

🇲🇽 coadjutor

Etymology

The term 'coadjutor' originates from the Latin word 'coadiutor', which means 'helper' or 'assistant'. The prefix 'co-' signifies 'together' or 'with', while 'adiutor' derives from 'adiutare', meaning 'to help'. The use of this term in ecclesiastical settings dates back several centuries, particularly as church structures became more complex and the need for hierarchical assistance grew. Initially, 'coadjutor' referred broadly to any helper or supporter, but its ecclesiastical usage became more defined with the establishment of formal church authorities. By the Middle Ages, coadjutor bishops were recognized as essential participants in the governance of diocese, aiding their bishops while also preparing to take on leadership roles themselves. This historical development reflects the evolving nature of church administration and the importance of succession planning within the church.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,904, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.