How Do You Spell SUFFRAGAN?

Pronunciation: [sˈʌfɹaɡən] (IPA)

The word "suffragan" is spelled with a double "f" and a single "g" between them, followed by the letters "a", "n", and the silent "t" at the end. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈsʌfrəɡən/. This word is used to describe a bishop who assists and supports another bishop in a diocese. The English language is full of complex spellings and with the help of phonetic transcription, the correct pronunciation of words like "suffragan" can be achieved.

SUFFRAGAN Meaning and Definition

1. Suffragan is an adjective used to describe a bishop who assists or supports a diocesan or metropolitan bishop within a geographical region or ecclesiastical province. This term is primarily utilized within the context of the Christian Church, particularly the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion.

   In the hierarchical structure of these churches, a suffragan bishop is appointed to help with the pastoral and administrative duties of a diocese or archdiocese. They are usually assigned to a specific region or city within the larger jurisdiction, and their role is to assist the diocesan bishop in the leadership, governance, and spiritual guidance of the faithful in that area.

   The term "suffragan" is derived from Latin, with "sub-" meaning below or under, and "-frag-" derived from "frangere" meaning to break or fracture. In this sense, a suffragan bishop is positioned below or subordinate to the diocesan or metropolitan bishop, and their authority is derived from and acts on behalf of the higher-ranking bishop.

   Suffragan bishops may have their own specific responsibilities, such as overseeing certain parishes, conducting confirmations, or representing the diocesan bishop in various ceremonies or meetings. They play a key role in the church's system of governance and are instrumental in maintaining coordination, communication, and unity within the larger ecclesiastical structure.

2. • An assistant.

   • Assisting.

   • An assistant-bishop; a bishop considered in relation to his metropolitan.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SUFFRAGAN

• suffregen
• suffergan
• sufragan
• suffregan
• Suffragent
• sufrigen
• Suffragante
• Suffrajant
• Suffregand

Etymology of SUFFRAGAN

The word "suffragan" has its origins in Latin. It comes from the Late Latin term "suffraganeus", which means "assistant" or "helper". The term is derived from the Latin verb "suffragari", meaning "to support" or "to vote in favor of". In the context of the Catholic Church, a suffragan bishop is an assistant or subordinate bishop who works in conjunction with an archbishop or metropolitan bishop. The term "suffragan" has been used in ecclesiastical contexts since at least the 14th century.

Similar spelling words for SUFFRAGAN

• suffrage,
• suffragette,
• suffragist.

Plural form of SUFFRAGAN is SUFFRAGANS