cardinal
UK: ˈkɑːdɪnəl | US: ˈkɑːrdɪnəl
n. a high-ranking official in the Roman Catholic Church
n. a bright red color
n. a North American songbird with a distinctive crest
adj. of primary importance; fundamental
The word cardinal originates from Latin cardinalis, meaning "principal" or "pivotal," derived from cardo (hinge). This reflects the idea of something being central or essential, much like a hinge is pivotal to a door's function. Over time, it came to denote high-ranking Church officials (as "hinges" of the Church) and the vivid red associated with their robes. The bird's name derives from its red plumage, resembling the color of a cardinal's attire.
The cardinal presided over the conclave to elect the new pope.
She wore a dress in a striking shade of cardinal.
A northern cardinal perched on the branch, its red feathers bright against the snow.
Freedom of speech is a cardinal principle in democratic societies.
The team ignored the cardinal rule of safety and faced severe consequences.