(of doctrines of faith or morals) defined by the pope as infallibly true, to be accepted by all Catholics
Word origin
Latin, literally: from the chair
ex cathedra in American English
(ɛksˈkæθɪdrə; often, ɛkskəˈθidrə)
with the authority that comes from one's rank or office: often specif. with reference to papal pronouncements, on matters of faith or morals, that have authoritative finality
Word origin
ModL, lit., from the chair < L ex, from + cathedra, chair, esp. of a teacher (in LL(Ec), of a bishop)