Spiritual
/ˈspɪrɪtʃuəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to the spirit, soul, or non-physical aspects of a person, often associated with religious or philosophical beliefs.
/ˈspɪrɪtʃuəl/
Relating to or affecting the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things.
She found spiritual solace in nature.
💡 Simply: When something's spiritual, it's about your soul, your inner self, your beliefs, and how you connect with things bigger than yourself. Like, when you go to a temple to feel at peace, that's a spiritual experience.
👶 For kids: Something that has to do with your feelings and what you believe in, like going to church or being kind to others.
More Examples
The artist's work reflects a deep spiritual sensitivity.
They practice spiritual disciplines like meditation and prayer.
How It's Used
"The church provides spiritual guidance to its members."
"He sought spiritual enlightenment through meditation."
"The novel explored themes of spiritual growth and redemption."
A religious folk song, typically of a celebratory or expressive nature, associated with Black Christians in the United States.
/ˈspɪrɪtʃuəl/
A religious song of a kind associated with black Christians of the US.
The concert featured a powerful performance of traditional spirituals.
💡 Simply: A special kind of religious song from the Black community in the US, often sung with lots of feeling and rhythm. Think of those joyful songs people sing in church!
👶 For kids: A happy song about God that some people sing in church.
More Examples
Spirituals played a vital role in the history of African American music.
The singer's rendition of the spiritual brought tears to the audience's eyes.
How It's Used
"The choir sang several beautiful spirituals at the concert."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Middle English spiritual, spirituel, from Old French spirituel, from Latin spiritualis ('of or belonging to the spirit, incorporeal'), from spiritus ('spirit').
The word 'spiritual' has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages, with its meaning largely unchanged throughout time.
Memory tip
Think of 'spirit' – spiritual is about the intangible aspects of a person.
Word Origin
"Of or relating to the spirit; incorporeal"