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Ecumenical: meaning, definitions and examples

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ecumenical

 

[ ˌɛkjuˈmɛnɪkəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

religious unity

Ecumenical refers to promoting or relating to the unity and cooperation among different Christian churches and denominations. It encompasses efforts toward dialogue, understanding, and shared practices to foster community among various faith traditions. The term also resonates with broader interfaith discussions that aim for harmony across different religions. This term is often used in contexts where various Christian factions come together for common purposes.

Synonyms

ecclesiastical, interdenominational, unifying

Examples of usage

  • The ecumenical movement seeks to unify Christians.
  • An ecumenical service brought together multiple denominations.
  • Her ecumenical approach welcomed diverse traditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "ecumenical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ecumênico

🇮🇳 सार्वभौमिक

🇩🇪 ökumenisch

🇮🇩 ekumenis

🇺🇦 екуменічний

🇵🇱 ekumeniczny

🇯🇵 エキュメニカル

🇫🇷 œcuménique

🇪🇸 ecuménico

🇹🇷 ekümenik

🇰🇷 에큐메니컬

🇸🇦 كنسي شامل

🇨🇿 ekumenický

🇸🇰 ekumenický

🇨🇳 普世的

🇸🇮 ekumenski

🇮🇸 ekumenískur

🇰🇿 экумендік

🇬🇪 ეკუმენური

🇦🇿 ekumenik

🇲🇽 ecuménico

Word origin

The term 'ecumenical' is derived from the Greek word 'oikoumene', which means 'the inhabited world' or 'the whole world'. In the Christian context, it specifically refers to the idea of all Christians being united under Christ, irrespective of their denominational differences. The modern usage of the term emerged in the early 20th century as various Christian groups sought to address divisions and work toward common goals. The World Council of Churches, formed in 1948, is a major organization that embodies the ecumenical spirit by fostering cooperation among different Christian denominations globally. The ecumenical movement has played a significant role in addressing social issues and fostering dialogue in a pluralistic world, emphasizing the importance of understanding and reconciliation among faiths.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,417, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.