Spiritual

Definition

Spiritual relates to the human spirit, soul, or immaterial aspects of life, as opposed to physical or material things. It is often connected to religious or sacred matters but can also refer to personal growth and inner peace.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspɪr.ɪ.tʃu.əl/
• Respelling: SPIR-i-choo-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspɪr.ɪ.tjuː.əl/
• Respelling: SPIR-i-tyoo-uhl

Etymology

The word "spiritual" originates from the Latin "spiritualis," meaning "of or belonging to breath, spirit, or soul," derived from "spiritus" (spirit). It entered English in the Middle Ages, gaining associations with the sacred and immaterial.

Derivatives

• Spirituality (noun)
• Spiritually (adverb)
• Spiritualize (verb)
• Unspiritual (adjective)
• Spiritualist (noun)

Synonyms

• Sacred
• Ethereal
• Transcendent

Antonyms

• Material
• Physical
• Secular

Usage

The adjective "spiritual" is commonly used to describe matters of the soul, religion, or personal growth. For example, "She embarked on a spiritual journey to find inner peace," or "The painting had a spiritual quality that captivated viewers."

Related Terms

• Spirit: The non-physical part of a person, regarded as their true self.
• Soul: The immaterial essence or individual identity of a person.
• Religion: A system of beliefs and worship involving sacred or divine elements.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relating to or affecting the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things: Describes immaterial aspects of life or existence.
  • Example: "He felt a spiritual connection with nature."
• Relating to religion or sacred matters: Refers to beliefs or practices that concern divine or supernatural elements.
  • Example: "The ritual had deep spiritual significance."
• Characterized by a focus on personal growth or inner peace: Used in a broader sense to describe non-religious forms of inner exploration.
  • Example: "Meditation is part of her spiritual practice."