sacerdotalis

Sacerdotalis is a Latin adjective meaning priestly or pertaining to the priest. Derived from the noun sacerdos (priest) with the common Latin adjectival suffix -alis, sacerdotalis denotes qualities, offices, or functions associated with the priesthood. In Latin texts, the word is used to describe things related to priests, priestly authority, or priestly duties, and it agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies, as do other -alis adjectives.

In English and in modern ecclesiastical usage, the related term sacerdotal is more common, but sacerdotalis appears in Latin phrases and titles. The form is often encountered in historical, theological, and liturgical contexts where Latin is used to label priestly aspects of church life or doctrine. A notable modern instance is the papal encyclical Sacerdotalis Caelibatus (1967) by Pope Paul VI, which addresses the discipline of clerical celibacy in the Latin Church; in this title, sacerdotalis describes the celibacy as priestly.

Etymologically, sacerdotalis embodies a fusion of sacred or priestly associations with the concept of the priesthood, underscoring functions or status tied to ordained ministry. The term is primarily of scholarly or formal usage, especially within Latin-language ecclesiastical writings. In summary, sacerdotalis designates things related to priests and their duties, and it is most often encountered today in Latin documents or discussions of priestly life and authority. See also sacerdotal, priesthood, clerical celibacy, Latin phrases in Catholic theology.