denominational

[ dih-nom-uh-ney-shuh-nl ]

adjective

1. of or relating to a denomination or denominations.
2. founded, sponsored, or controlled by a particular religious denomination or sect:

   denominational schools.

3. limited, conditioned, originating in, or influenced by the beliefs, attitudes, or interests of a religious sect, political party, etc.:

   denominational prejudice.

Other Words From

• de·nomi·nation·al·ly adverb
• nonde·nomi·nation·al adjective
• nonde·nomi·nation·al·ly adverb
• transde·nomi·nation·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of denominational¹

First recorded in 1830–40; denomination + -al ¹

Example Sentences

Conservative and liberal groups formed their own church caucuses for denominational legislative sessions, where Scriptures and slogans flew back and forth between proclamations of Robert’s Rules of Order.

From Seattle Times

The denomination also will be debating policy stances regarding fossil fuels and other issues as well as voting on major budget cuts to denominational programs, reflective of losing thousands of congregations.

From Seattle Times

He said at another point that “in the civil rights movement, at least in the late ’60s in particular,” there was more “solidarity among churches across denominational lines.”

From New York Times

The NAR poses a radically different paradigm than traditional denominational Christianity of any stripe.

From Salon

While most UMC congregations are remaining, many of the departing congregations are large, and denominational officials are bracing for significant budget cuts in 2024.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• biased
• one-sided
• sectarian
• sympathetic
• unjust