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Definition of doctrinal

doctrinal

/ˈdɑːk.trə.nəl/
doc · tri · nal
Adverb:doctrinally
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doctrinal Lexical Profile

doctrinal Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to, based on, or concerned with an official doctrine or set of religious, political, or legal principles.

Example

"The council convened to resolve several longstanding doctrinal disputes within the church."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

'Doctrinal' is a neutral descriptive term meaning 'relating to a doctrine,' whereas 'doctrinaire' carries a negative connotation of applying theories or principles rigidly without regard for practical realities.

• Nearby Words

doctoral
doctorate
doctorfish
doctrinal
doctrine
docudrama
document

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Late Latin doctrinalis ('pertaining to teaching or instruction'), derived from Latin doctrina ('teaching, learning'), from doctor ('teacher') and docere ('to teach').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Doctrinal. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/doctrinal
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