cardinal
Translation
cardinal, cardinal number, fundamental
Examples
A bright red cardinal sat on the fence.
A bright red cardinal sat on the fence.
The Pope appointed a new cardinal.
The Pope appointed a new cardinal.
Respect is a cardinal rule in this house.
Respect is a cardinal rule in this house.
Grammar Patterns
a/an ((cardinal)) a high-ranking cleric or a type of bird The Pope appointed a new cardinal.
a ((cardinal)) rule/point a fundamental rule or point Respect is a cardinal rule.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (adj) fundamental, chief, principal; Antonyms: (adj) secondary, minor
Etymology
From Latin 'cardinalis' meaning 'principal, pivotal', from 'cardo' meaning 'hinge'. The colour is named after the red robes of the cardinals.
Memory Tips
Connect the red robes of the church cardinal with the red feathers of the cardinal bird. Both are 'principal' or 'chief' figures.