decretist

noun

de·​cre·​tist

-ētə̇st,

-ētə̇-

plural -s

: one specializing in the study of decretals : canonist

Word History

Etymology

Middle English decretiste, from Middle French or Medieval Latin; Middle French, from Medieval Latin decretista, from Latin decretum decree + -ista -ist

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!