Definition of ecumenical
1 : worldwide or general in extent, influence, or application
2a : of, relating to, or representing the whole of a body of churchesb : promoting or tending toward worldwide Christian unity or cooperation
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Recent Examples of ecumenical from the Web
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Courier-Journal An ecumenical memorial service to pay tribute to Muhammad Ali's legacy has been scheduled at the plaza next to the Muhammad Ali Center for Saturday from 8 to 9 a.m.
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The alternative, of course, is an ecumenical cynicism toward everyone and everything.
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Broadcast Sunday on CNN’s Both Sides with Jesse Jackson, the unusual ecumenical-cum-political discussion evoked comparisons between Clinton and other biblical figures.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ecumenical'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of ecumenical
Late Latin oecumenicus, from Late Greek oikoumenikos, from Greek oikoumenē the inhabited world, from feminine of oikoumenos, present passive participle of oikein to inhabit, from oikos house — more at vicinity
ECUMENICAL Defined for English Language Learners
ecumenical
playDefinition of ecumenical for English Language Learners
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: involving people from different kinds of Christian churches
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Spanish Central: Translation of ecumenical Nglish: Translation of ecumenical for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of ecumenical for Arabic speakers
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