episcopalism

[ ih-pis-kuh-puh-liz-uhm ]

noun

1. the theory of church polity according to which the supreme ecclesiastical authority is vested in the episcopal order as a whole, and not in any individual except by delegation.

episcopalism

/ ɪˈpɪskəpəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the belief that a Church should be governed by bishops

Word History and Origins

Origin of episcopalism¹

episcopal + -ism

Example Sentences

Episcopalism sought revenge on its opponent, and it triumphed.

From Project Gutenberg