Word-Built World: autocephality

Illustration: Anu Garg

A.Word.A.Daywith Anu Garg

autocephality

PRONUNCIATION:

(ah-to-suh-FAL-i-tee) 

MEANING:

noun: Self-rule.

ETYMOLOGY:

From Greek auto- (self) + -cephal (head).

NOTES:

Autocephality is a fancy word for self-governance. It’s especially used in the context of Eastern Orthodox Churches that independently govern their spiritual affairs without a higher ecclesiastical authority. Think of it as running their own spiritual show. No higher-ups pulling the incense strings.
Not to be confused with autocephalopods. Those would be self-governing squids.

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