Confessional

confession + -al

Full definition of confessional

Adjective

1. In the manner or style of a confession.
2. Officially practicing a particular religion, as a state or organization. See confessionalism 1.

From French confessionnal.

Noun

1. (Roman Catholic church) A small room where confession—the sacrament of reconciliation—is performed by a priest.
• 1956, w, Crime out of Mind Chapter 13, In one of the aisles there was an elaborately carved confessional box and I recognised the village priest in his heavy mountain boots and black cassock as he entered it and drew the dark velvet curtains behind him.

Related terms

• interconfessional