How to Use This Dictionary
Every entry follows the same format. Here's what each part means.
Finding a term
There are three ways to find what you're looking for:
- Search — type any word or phrase into the search bar on the homepage. Results appear as you type, with fuzzy matching so minor spelling variations still find the right entry.
- Browse A–Z — the full dictionary, sorted alphabetically. Use the letter navigation bar at the top to jump to any section.
- Browse by Category — entries grouped by topic (Worship, Salvation, Church Life, etc.) so you can explore related terms together.
Reading an entry
The term
The main headword, in the form most commonly used. Variants and alternate spellings are noted at the top of the entry.
Pronunciation
Shown in standard IPA notation with a plain-English guide below it — for example, SOW-teer-ee-AH-luh-jee for soteriology. If you're not familiar with IPA, read the plain guide; it'll get you close enough.
In plain English
A single sentence that gives you the gist — no jargon, no qualification. This is the definition you'd give to a curious friend at a coffee shop. It's intentionally brief; the full definition below handles the nuance.
Full definition
A thorough explanation: what the term means, where it came from, how it developed, and what it implies theologically or culturally. When a term means different things in different traditions, we note that here.
Examples
Real sentences showing how the word is used in conversation — the kind of thing you'd actually hear at a church service, small group, or potluck dinner. Examples are drawn from across traditions.
Confusion rating
A 1–5 scale showing how often this term leaves people scratching their heads, based on editorial judgment and reader feedback:
- 1 — Obvious: Most people recognize it, even outside church circles.
- 2 — Mildly puzzling: Clear in context but the exact meaning can be elusive.
- 3 — Confusing: Regularly trips people up, even longtime churchgoers.
- 4 — Very confusing: Sounds like it might mean something; rarely does to newcomers.
- 5 — Total mystery: Complete insider language. Most people have no idea.
Tradition tags
Some terms are used broadly across Christianity; others are specific to certain traditions. Tags like Evangelical, Catholic, Pentecostal / Charismatic, or Reformed indicate where you're most likely to encounter the term.Ecumenical means you'll hear it just about everywhere.
Related terms
Links to entries that share theological ground or are commonly used together. Following related terms is one of the best ways to build a fuller picture of how Christian concepts connect.
The Lighter Side
The Lighter Side section covers the informal, sometimes humorous vocabulary that develops inside Christian communities — things like side hug,God said it, I believe it, that settles it, or hedge of protection. These entries get the same thorough treatment, because understanding the culture includes understanding its quirks and in-jokes.
Word of the Day
Each day the Word of the Day highlights a single entry from the dictionary. It rotates deterministically — the same word appears for everyone on the same day, so you can discuss it with others who visit the site.
Something missing?
The dictionary grows over time. If you've encountered a piece of Christianese that isn't here yet, suggest it. All submissions are reviewed before publishing. We especially want to hear about terms that left you genuinely confused — that's exactly what this site is for.