Episcopal
/ɪˈpɪskəpəl/noun
Relating to a bishop or bishops, especially in church governance.
Did you know?Episcopal comes from Greek *epískopos* (“overseer”), the same root behind *bishop*, and the original image was not mystical at all: a person appointed to supervise and guard a community.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
epískopos
“An overseer, guardian, or supervisor.”
Late Latin
Latin
episcopus
“A bishop, especially a Christian church overseer.”
Old French
Old French
episcopal
“Relating to a bishop.”
Middle English
English
episcopal
“Pertaining to bishops or episcopal church government.”
Modern English
English
episcopal
“Relating to a bishop or bishops, especially in church governance.”
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