noun

cardinal

cardinal, fundamental, cardinal bird

The Pope appointed a new cardinal.

The Pope appointed a new cardinal.

The cardinal rule is to always be honest.

The cardinal rule is to always be honest.

((a/an)) cardinal a type of priest or bird The Pope appointed a new cardinal.

((a/an)) cardinal ((noun)) a fundamental or main (noun) The cardinal rule is to be honest.

Synonyms (adjective): fundamental, principal, primary. Synonyms (noun): bishop, priest.

From Latin 'cardinalis' ('principal, pivotal'), from 'cardo' ('hinge'). It refers to something on which other things depend or 'hinge'.

Think of a 'cardinal' rule as the 'hinge' for all other rules. The red robes of a Church cardinal match the color of the cardinal bird.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.