Cardinal

/ˈkɑːrdɪnəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A cardinal number.

Three is a cardinal, while third is an ordinal.

A high-ranking official in the Catholic Church.

The pope appointed several new cardinals during the conclave.

Any of various bright red birds of the family Cardinalidae, especially the Eastern Cardinal.

We spotted a cardinal perched on the branch outside our window.

adjective

Of primary importance; fundamental.

Honesty is a cardinal virtue in any relationship.

Relating to a number that represents quantity rather than order.

The cardinal numbers are one, two, three, and so on.

Relating to a high-ranking official in the Catholic Church, particularly a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church.

The cardinal presided over the ceremony, highlighting its significance.

From Latin 'cardinalis', meaning 'pertaining to a hinge', from 'cardo', meaning 'hinge'.

cardinal rule:

A basic principle or guideline that is essential to follow.

cardinal direction:

One of the four principal directions (north, south, east, west).

cardinal sins:

The seven deadly sins in Christian theology.

Referring to an important or central figure in a situation.

That guy is the cardinal of the operation; everything revolves around him.

Something that is key or crucial.

Getting enough sleep is cardinal if you want to perform well.