Cardinal
ˈkɑːrdɪnəl
adjective
Origin
Latin
cardo, cardinis — hinge
Overview
Meaning Now
- Of the greatest importance; fundamental or essential.
- Denoting a number that expresses quantity (e.g., one, two, three) rather than order (e.g., first, second, third).
- A deep, bright red color.
Literal older meaning
Pertaining to a hinge; figuratively, a pivot point upon which other things depend.
Language path
Latin → Old French → English
Earliest form
cardinalis
Earliest period
12th century
Journey
The term derived from the Latin 'cardo' (hinge). In the Roman Empire, it was used to describe things that were vital or central. It was later adopted by the Church for high-ranking prelates who were considered the 'hinges' upon which the governance of the Church turned.
Evolution
- Classical Latin
cardinalis
“serving as a hinge; principal”
Used to describe things upon which others turn.
- Medieval Latin
cardinalis
“an ecclesiastical official of high rank”
Referencing the 'hinges' of the Church.
- Old French
cardinal
“principal; primary”
- Middle English
cardinal
“fundamental; chief”
Connections
Word parts
card-
root
hinge
-in-
suffix
pertaining to
-al
suffix
having the nature of
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Related to Cardinal
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.