Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to or characteristic of a particular religious denomination: Pertaining to the specific beliefs, practices, or organization of a distinct religious group or sect.
   • Adhering or confined to a particular sect or denomination: Describing a person, attitude, or institution that is limited to or strongly associated with one specific religious group, often implying exclusivity or bias.
   • Relating to the face value of a banknote, coin, or stamp: (A less common, specialized meaning) Pertaining to the stated monetary value or denomination of currency.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • The school has a denominational affiliation with the Lutheran church.
  • Denominational differences have sometimes led to conflict within the broader Christian community.
  • He criticized the denominational prejudice that prevented cooperation between the churches.

Advanced Usage

• "Denominational identity": The sense of belonging and specific characteristics associated with a particular religious group.

  • Her denominational identity as a Methodist strongly influences her approach to community service.

• "Non-denominational": Not restricted to or associated with any single religious denomination; interdenominational or secular in nature.

  • They were married in a non-denominational ceremony.

Variants and Related Words

• Denomination (n): A recognized, autonomous branch of a larger religious faith (e.g., Baptist, Methodist, Catholic). Also refers to a class or unit of value.
• Denominationally (adv): In a manner relating to a denomination.
  • The charity is funded denominationally by several churches.

Synonyms

• Sectarian: Concerning a sect; often implies rigid adherence and potential conflict.
• Confessional: Relating to a statement of religious belief or a specific religious tradition.
• Ecclesiastical: Relating to the Christian church or its clergy (broader than denominational).

Antonyms

• Non-denominational: Not affiliated with any specific religious denomination.
• Interdenominational: Involving different religious denominations.
• Secular: Not connected with religious or spiritual matters.

Adjective

1. adhering or confined to a particular sect or denomination
   • denominational prejudice
2. relating to the face value of a banknote, coin, or stamp
3. relating to or characteristic of a particular religious denomination
   • denominational politics