'Decretal' definitions:
Definition of 'Decretal'
From: GCIDE
- Decretal \De*cre"tal\, a. [L. decretalis, fr. decretum. See Decree.] Appertaining to a decree; containing a decree; as, a decretal epistle. --Ayliffe. [1913 Webster]
Definition of 'Decretal'
From: GCIDE
- Decretal \De*cre"tal\, n. [LL. decretale, neut. of L. decretalis. See Decretal, a.]
- 1. (R. C. Ch.) An authoritative order or decree; especially, a letter of the pope, determining some point or question in ecclesiastical law. The decretals form the second part of the canon law. [1913 Webster]
- 2. (Canon Law) The collection of ecclesiastical decrees and decisions made, by order of Gregory IX., in 1234, by St. Raymond of Pennafort. [1913 Webster]