christendom Definition
- 1the worldwide body or society of Christians
- 2Christianity considered as a social and political power
Using christendom: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "christendom" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The spread of Christendom throughout Europe was a gradual process.
Example
The Crusades were an attempt to reclaim the Holy Land for Christendom.
Example
The influence of Christendom on medieval art is evident in the many religious paintings and sculptures from that time.
christendom Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for christendom
- Christianity
- Christians
- Christian world
Phrases with christendom
a title given to the English monarch by the Pope in recognition of their defense of the Catholic faith
Example
Henry VIII was granted the title 'Defender of the Faith of Christendom' by Pope Leo X in 1521.
the decline of Christendom
the historical period marked by the decline of Christianity's influence in Western Europe, beginning in the late 17th century
Example
The Enlightenment marked the beginning of the decline of Christendom in Europe.
the idea of a unified Christian Church, which has been sought after by various Christian denominations throughout history
Example
The concept of the unity of Christendom has been a driving force behind many ecumenical movements.
Origins of christendom
from Old English 'Cristendōm', meaning 'Christianity'
Summary: christendom in Brief
The term 'christendom' [kris-tuh n-duhm] refers to the worldwide body of Christians or Christianity considered as a social and political power. It describes the spread of Christianity throughout Europe, the influence of Christendom on medieval art, and the decline of Christianity's influence in Western Europe beginning in the late 17th century. The phrase 'defender of the faith of Christendom' denotes the English monarch's defense of the Catholic faith, while 'the unity of Christendom' refers to the idea of a unified Christian Church.