ecclesiastical Latin
noun
The form of Latin used in the Roman Catholic Church, especially as opposed to classical Latin.
- Ecclesiastical Latin has evolved over time and the term encompasses a broad range of styles and registers. Originally influenced by vernacular Latin, it differs from classical Latin chiefly in its vocabulary and, in recent times, Italian-influenced pronunciation..
Origin
Mid 18th century; earliest use found in Kenneth Macaulay (?1724–1779), Church of Scotland minister and local historian.