Cahenslyism

noun

Ca·​hens·​ly·​ism

kəˈhenzlēˌizəm,

-n(t)sl-

plural -s

: a movement to divide the foreign-born Roman Catholic population of the U.S. for ecclesiastical purposes according to European nationalities and to appoint bishops and priests of the same national origin and language as the majority of the members of a diocese or parish

Word History

Etymology

Peter P. Cahensly, †1923 German parliamentarian who proposed the plan + English -ism

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now