titular

Titular is an adjective used to describe something that relates to a title or that exists in name rather than in substance. The term comes from the Latin titulus, meaning label or title. In everyday usage, a titular office or position is one held in name only or with little or no real authority, and a titular head of state is a person who bears the title but whose powers are largely ceremonial.

In political and constitutional contexts, the phrase titular head of state denotes someone who holds the title of head of state while the governing power resides elsewhere, often in an elected or appointed government. In religious contexts, titular see or titular bishop refers to a diocese no longer functioning with a resident bishop; bishops assigned to a titular see hold the rank and title but oversee no current, active diocese. Cardinals may also be assigned titular churches in Rome, reflecting a ceremonial association rather than actual parish duties.

In literature and film, the term is used to describe the character after whom a work is titled. The titular character is the one whose name appears in the title, as in The Great Gatsby, where Jay Gatsby is the titular figure, even though the narrative follows multiple perspectives and events around him. The usage emphasizes the connection between the work’s title and a central figure or concept.

Titular often contrasts with terms like nominal, formal, or de facto. It conveys the idea of authority or status in name only, rather than in practice. Related forms include titulus (Latin) and titulary, which pertain to titles or naming conventions.