What does trinitarian mean?
Trinitarian is chiefly a theological adjective relating to the Christian doctrine of the Trinity: the belief that there is one God, existing as three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It may describe doctrine, theology, a church, or a person whose beliefs are consistent with that doctrine. The word is formal and strongly associated with Christian theology rather than everyday speech. As a noun, a trinitarian is an advocate or member of a Trinitarian faith or church. The term can also convey the idea of three elements or persons existing in complete unity, especially when discussing the nature of God. Trinitarian is useful because it identifies a specific theological position without requiring the longer expression “relating to the Trinity,” while preserving the distinctive emphasis of trinitarianism on both unity and threesomeness.
Relating to or expressing the Christian doctrine that God is one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
"The lecture gave a careful account of trinitarian theology and its interpretation of scripture."
Chiefly formal and theological; it may also describe a conception of three distinct persons or aspects united in one.
A person who holds or advocates the doctrine of the Trinity, especially a member of a Trinitarian church.
"A number of trinitarians defended the council's statement against charges of theological inconsistency."
Less common than the adjective and typically used in explicitly Christian theological contexts.
The regular plural of the noun; capitalization is appropriate when referring to members of a particular Trinitarian denomination or tradition.
"The conference brought together trinitarians from several Christian traditions."
One God, three persons, one essence: trinitarian gives a precise name to one of Christianity’s most distinctive teachings.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How trinitarian is actually used
The adjective is chiefly theological and formal. As a noun, it is less common and usually denotes an adherent of Trinitarian doctrine or a member of a Trinitarian church. The term is especially associated with Christian theology, including the study of the relation between the three persons of the Trinity.
Easily confused with trinitarian
Trinitarian is an adjective describing doctrine, theology, or a person, whereas trinitarianism is the noun naming the doctrine itself.