Cathédrales (en. Cathedrals)

/ka.te.dʁal/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Main church of a diocese, where the bishop's seat is located.
Notre-Dame Cathedral is an emblematic example of Gothic architecture.
La cathédrale de Notre-Dame est un exemple emblématique de l'architecture gothique.
Religious building where important ceremonies take place.
Royal weddings often take place in cathedrals.
Les mariages royaux se déroulent souvent dans des cathédrales.
Large religious edifice famous for its size and architecture.
Cathedrals attract thousands of tourists each year.
Les cathédrales attirent des milliers de touristes chaque année.

Etymology

From the Latin 'cathēdrālis', which means 'of the chair', referring to the bishop's chair.

Common Phrases and Expressions

cathedral of light
Artistic event using lights to enhance the cathedral.
cathédrale de lumière
Gothic cathedral
Architectural style characterized by pointed arches and ribbed vaults.
cathédrale gothique
living cathedral
Expression designating a cathedral as a dynamic and active place.
cathédrale vivante

Related Words

pulpit
Church furniture where the bishop or priest addresses the assembly.
chaire
forecourt
Open space in front of a cathedral.
parvis
nave
Main part of a church where the assembly gathers.
nef

Slang Meanings

Colloquial expression designating a very busy place.
It has become a real cathedral with all these people.
C'est devenu une vraie cathédrale avec tous ces gens.
Used to describe something with a lot of grandeur.
This building is a cathedral of modern architecture.
Ce bâtiment est une cathédrale de l'architecture moderne.