ecumenical
UK: ˌiːkjuːˈmɛnɪkəl | US: ˌɛkjʊˈmɛnɪkəl
adj. relating to or representing the whole of a body of churches
adj. promoting or tending toward worldwide Christian unity
adj. broadly inclusive; universal
ecumenical = ecumen<inhabited world> + ical<adjective suffix>
- ecumen (from Greek oikoumenikos, derived from oikoumenē "inhabited world," from oikein "to inhabit")
- ical (adjective-forming suffix, from Latin -icalis, indicating "pertaining to")
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Greek oikoumenē, meaning "the inhabited world," reflecting the ancient Hellenistic concept of a unified civilized realm. Early Christian writers adopted oikoumenikos to describe church councils representing the entire Christian world (e.g., "ecumenical council"). Over time, it expanded metaphorically to denote inclusivity beyond religion, aligning with its Greek root’s emphasis on universality.
The ecumenical movement seeks reconciliation among Christian denominations.
Pope John XXIII convened an ecumenical council to modernize the Catholic Church.
Her speech took an ecumenical approach, addressing concerns across political divides.
The conference promoted ecumenical dialogue between scientists and theologians.
Their charity work has an ecumenical scope, aiding communities regardless of faith.