Ecumenical

Adjective

Definition: Promoting or relating to unity among the Christian churches.

Synonyms: Interdenominational, Interfaith, Universal

Antonyms: Exclusive, Sectarian

Examples:
  • The ecumenical movement aims to foster greater cooperation and understanding among different Christian denominations.
  • The conference brought together ecumenical leaders from all over the world.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of the "eco-" prefix, which means "house" or "habitat." Ecumenical can be related to the global "house" or community of Christians.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "ecumenical" comes from the Greek word "oikoumenikos," which means "the whole inhabited world." It is derived from the Greek word "oikoumene," which means "the inhabited world" or "world." The term was initially used in reference to the Roman Empire and later expanded to denote the entire Christian world.

Historical Usage:

The term "ecumenical" gained prominence in the early 20th century with the establishment of organizations such as the World Council of Churches, which sought to promote dialogue, cooperation, and unity among different Christian denominations.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Ecumenical movement"

Explanation:

Refers to the collective efforts and initiatives aimed at fostering unity and cooperation among different Christian churches, denominations, and traditions.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Equating "ecumenical" with "representing the whole Christian world"

Explanation:

While the approximate meaning provided by the user captures the essence of the term, it is essential to note that "ecumenical" refers specifically to promoting unity and dialogue among Christian denominations, rather than merely representing the entirety of the Christian world. The term does not encompass non-Christian religions or belief systems.

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