What does doxological mean?
Doxological is a formal adjective meaning “of or relating to a doxology.” A doxology is a hymn, verse, or set formula offered in praise of God, especially one used in Christian worship. The adjective can therefore describe the words, character, function, or liturgical use of such praise, rather than the hymn itself. In theological discussion, musicology, and the study of historic Christian liturgy, it distinguishes praise of God from more general devotional or celebratory language. Although understandable to a general reader, it is a specialist term and is less common than the noun doxology. Its associations are solemn and affirmative, but the word does not itself imply that the praise is extravagant. Doxological is especially associated with expressions such as the Gloria, the Te Deum, and other traditional doxologies, although contemporary worship may also use newly written praise texts. The adjective is useful when precision matters: it identifies language or material specifically associated with formal praise of God.
adjectiveOf or relating to a doxology, especially a hymn or formula praising the glory of God.
- Relating to a doxology or to formal expressions of praise offered to God.
"The commission's careful revision preserved the hymn's doxological character while making its language more accessible."
"The commission revised the doxological wording of the closing hymn to make it more accessible."
"The lecture examined the doxological function of the Gloria in several Christian traditions."
A doxology puts the glory of God into words; doxological is the adjective for everything that gives that praise its shape.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does doxological come from?
Doxological was formed in English from doxology and the adjective-forming suffix -ical. Doxology comes from Greek doxologia, combining doxa, meaning opinion, reputation, or glory, with -logia, meaning study, account, or discourse; in Christian usage, doxa acquired the sense of divine glory. Related words include doxa, dogma, and orthodox, which reflect the same Greek root associated with opinion, belief, or acknowledgment.
Related word forms
How doxological is actually used
Chiefly formal and specialized, especially in theology, worship, and musicology, where it denotes a connection with praise offered to God.
Easily confused with doxological
A doxology is the hymn or formula itself, whereas doxological is the adjective describing something relating to such praise.