Legal Definitions - ex cathedra

Definition: Ex cathedra (pronounced eks kuh-thee-druh or kath-uh-druh) is a Latin term that means "from the chair." It refers to a statement made by someone in a position of authority, such as a pope or a president, that is considered to be official and binding.

Example: When the pope speaks ex cathedra, he is speaking with the full authority of the Catholic Church. His statements are considered to be infallible and cannot be questioned by Catholics.

Explanation: The example illustrates how the term ex cathedra is used in the context of the Catholic Church. When the pope speaks ex cathedra, he is speaking with the authority of his position as the leader of the Church. His statements are considered to be official and binding, and Catholics are expected to accept them without question.