Presbyterian

1 of 2

noun

Pres·​by·​te·​ri·​an ˌprez-bə-ˈtir-ē-ən 

ˌpres-

: a member of a Presbyterian church

Presbyterian

2 of 2

adjective

1

often not capitalized : characterized by a graded system of representative ecclesiastical bodies (such as presbyteries) exercising legislative and judicial powers

2

: of, relating to, or constituting a Protestant Christian church that is presbyterian in government and traditionally Calvinistic in doctrine

Presbyterianism

ˌprez-bə-ˈtir-ē-ə-ˌni-zəm 

ˌpres-

noun

Examples of Presbyterian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Church hosts alternative giving market First Presbyterian Church of Mount Dora will have its annual alternative giving Christmas market from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Dec. 8. —Orlando Sentinel Staff, Orlando Sentinel, 5 Dec. 2024

New Hope Presbyterian Church, a multiethnic congregation led by a Black female pastor in Anaheim, started a string orchestra in April, welcoming students, including those who may have trouble getting into and paying for music programs. —Deepa Bharath, Los Angeles Times, 2 Dec. 2024

Adjective

Voters who normally would cast ballots at Church of the Redeemer will be directed to the Knox Presbyterian location. —Dan Horn, The Enquirer, 6 Nov. 2024

Hunter’s parents work for the Presbyterian church Hunter’s father is a minister, having served in the Presbyterian Church (USA) for more than 30 years. —Erica Marrison, Peoplemag, 21 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1606, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1607, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

Presbyterian

adjective

Pres·​by·​te·​ri·​an

ˌprez-bə-ˈtir-ē-ən,

ˌpres-

1

often not capitalized : having a system of representative governing councils of ministers and elders

2

: of, relating to, or being a Protestant Christian church that is presbyterian in government

Presbyterian noun

Presbyterianism

-ē-ə-ˌniz-əm

noun