GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Decretal , a. [L. decretalis, fr. decretum. See Decree.] Appertaining to a decree; containing a decree; as, a decretal epistle.
   Ayliffe.
   
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2.       
   Decretal, n. [LL. decretale, neut. of L. decretalis. See Decretal, a.]
   (R. C. Ch.) An authoritative order or decree; especially, a letter of the pope, determining some point or question in ecclesiastical law. The decretals form the second part of the canon law.
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   (Canon Law) The collection of ecclesiastical decrees and decisions made, by order of Gregory IX., in 1234, by St. Raymond of Pennafort.
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