What does intercessory mean?
Intercessory means acting on behalf of someone else, especially by asking, pleading, or praying for them. Its best-known use is “intercessory prayer,” a prayer made for other people rather than simply for oneself. In legal, political, and diplomatic contexts, an intercessory role refers to acting as a mediator or advocate who helps someone else reach an outcome. The word carries a sense of intervention and mediation, often implying that the person speaking has some influence but is not directly responsible for the matter. It is more formal than words such as “helping” or “supporting,” and its religious associations are especially strong in Christian and other religious traditions. Understanding “intercessory” clarifies the distinction between acting for oneself and representing the interests of another.
adjectiveActing or serving as an intermediary, especially by pleading or praying on behalf of someone else. The term is most commonly used in religious and legal contexts.
- Acting as an intermediary or advocating for someone else.
- Relating to or consisting of prayer made on behalf of other people.
"The congregation joined in an intercessory prayer for those affected by the disaster."
"The diplomat played an intercessory role in bringing the two sides to the negotiating table."
"They held an intercessory prayer for the peace of the world."
Intercessory comes from the idea of stepping between people: from Latin, it originally referred to someone who intervened on another person's behalf.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does intercessory come from?
The word comes through Old French from Latin intercessor, a noun meaning “one who intervenes or mediates,” formed from intercedere, “to go between” or “intervene on behalf of.” The related English verb “intercede” preserves that sense, while “intercession” names the act of interceding. The adjective “intercessory” developed from this family of words and became especially established in religious usage.
Related word forms
How intercessory is actually used
The adjective is most familiar in the phrase “intercessory prayer.” In secular contexts, it can sound formal and may suggest mediation, advocacy, or intervention on another person's behalf.