I. də̇ˈkrēd. ə l, dēˈ-, -ēt ə l noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English decretale, from Middle French, from Late Latin decretalis, from decretalis, adjective
1. : an authoritative order : decree ; especially : a papal epistle replying to some question concerning general ecclesiastical law
2. decretals plural : the collection of papal decrees forming the second part of the body of canon law
II. adjective
Etymology: Late Latin decretalis, from Latin decretum decree + -alis -al
1. : relating to or containing a decree
a decretal epistle
2. obsolete : having the binding effect of a decree
3. obsolete : decisive , final