Liturgical: meaning, definitions and examples

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liturgical

 

[ lɪˈtɜːrdʒɪkəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

formal worship

Liturgical refers to anything pertaining to public worship in churches or other religious settings. It typically involves established forms and rituals performed during religious services. The term encompasses the various elements of worship, including prayers, readings, and music, that are part of a structured ceremony. Many religious traditions have their own specific liturgical practices that reflect their beliefs and values.

Synonyms

ceremonial, religious, ritualistic, sacramental

Examples of usage

  • The liturgical calendar helps guide the church's celebrations.
  • She participated in the liturgical choir during the service.
  • Liturgical texts are often read aloud in worship.
  • The liturgical movement aimed to make worship more inclusive.

Translations

Translations of the word "liturgical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 litúrgico

🇮🇳 पूजागार संबंधी

🇩🇪 liturgisch

🇮🇩 liturgis

🇺🇦 літургійний

🇵🇱 liturgiczny

🇯🇵 典礼の

🇫🇷 liturgique

🇪🇸 litúrgico

🇹🇷 litürjik

🇰🇷 전례의

🇸🇦 طقوسي

🇨🇿 liturgický

🇸🇰 liturgický

🇨🇳 礼拜的

🇸🇮 liturgičen

🇮🇸 guðsþjónustu-

🇰🇿 литургиялық

🇬🇪 ლიტურგიული

🇦🇿 liturgik

🇲🇽 litúrgico

Etymology

The term 'liturgical' originates from the Greek word 'leitourgia,' which means 'public service' or 'work of the people.' In ancient Greece, 'leitourgia' referred to various public duties performed by citizens for the benefit of the community, often in a religious or civic context. The Christian adaptation of this term began in the early Church as believers gathered for communal worship. Over time, 'liturgical' became associated specifically with formalized worship, rituals, and the organization of religious services within Christianity. This allowed for the establishment of various liturgical practices that included readings, prayers, and sacraments, which differ among denominations. The liturgical tradition has continued to evolve, reflecting changes in theology, culture, and worship styles throughout Christian history.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,679, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.