gregory xi: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowFormal / Academic
Quick answer
What does “gregory xi” mean?
A proper noun referring to the 14th-century pope who ended the Avignon Papacy.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun referring to the 14th-century pope who ended the Avignon Papacy.
The last French-born pope, known historically for returning the papal seat from Avignon to Rome, a key figure in Catholic Church history. The term can also be used to reference a specific period in Western history.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage or meaning.
Connotations
Primarily associated with historical/religious studies; no strong modern connotations in either variety.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse in both varieties. Slightly higher frequency in contexts of European history or Catholic studies, but equally low in everyday language.
Grammar
How to Use “gregory xi” in a Sentence
(Pope) Gregory XI + verb (returned, ruled, died)during + the + pontificate/papacy/reign + of + Gregory XIVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in historical and religious studies texts to identify a specific pope and his actions, particularly concerning the return of the papacy to Rome.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Used as a precise historical and ecclesiastical reference in theology and medieval history.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gregory xi”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gregory xi”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gregory xi”
- Writing 'Gregory the 11th' in formal texts instead of 'Gregory XI'.
- Confusing him with other popes named Gregory.
- Pronouncing 'XI' as separate letters /ɛks aɪ/ instead of as 'the eleventh'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Gregory XI (born Pierre Roger de Beaufort) was French, from the Limousin region. He was the last French-born pope.
He was elected pope in 1370 and served until his death in 1378.
The move was influenced by pressure from figures like Saint Catherine of Siena, the deteriorating political situation in the Papal States, and a desire to restore the papacy's traditional seat.
No, it is a highly specialised term used almost exclusively in historical or religious contexts. It is not part of general vocabulary.
A proper noun referring to the 14th-century pope who ended the Avignon Papacy.
Gregory xi is usually formal / academic in register.
Gregory xi: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡrɛɡ(ə)ri ðə ɪˈlɛvənθ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡrɛɡəri ðə ɪˈlɛvənθ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(none)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Gregory Eleven: Think 'G' for 'Going back' from France to Rome.
Conceptual Metaphor
A NAME AS A HISTORICAL MARKER: 'Gregory XI' metaphorically stands for the end of the Avignon Papacy and a pivotal moment of institutional return.
Practice
Quiz
What is Gregory XI most historically significant for?