Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ecclesiastical authority

noun

‘ɛk.lɪ.ziˌæs.tɪ.kəl əˈθɔːr.ɪ.ti

Definition

The power or authority that is held by the church or its leaders.

Examples

The bishop exercised ecclesiastical authority over the diocese.
In matters of doctrine, ecclesiastical authority is often invoked to maintain unity in the church.

Meaning

Ecclesiastical authority refers to the influence and decision-making power that church officials possess regarding religious matters and the governance of the church.