epistle
/ɪˈpɪs.əl/ noun C2- A literary composition in the form of a letter or series of letters, especially one in verse.
- A letter, especially one which is formal or issued publicly.
- Chiefly with a qualifying word, as in epistle dedicatory: a letter of dedication addressed to a patron or reader published as a preface to a literary work.
- One of the books of the New Testament which was originally a letter issued by an apostle to an individual or a community.
- An extract from a New Testament epistle (noun sense 3.1) or book other than a gospel which is read during a church service, chiefly the Eucharist.
Plural epistles
From the library
“The same writing,” remarked Holmes, as he opened the envelope, “and actually signed,” he added in an exultant voice as he unfolded the epistle.
Dear me!” said this singular epistle.
Two hours afterwards, Madame Danglars received a most flattering epistle from the count, in which he entreated her to receive back her favorite “dappled grays,” protesting that he could not endure the idea of making his entry into the Parisian world of fashion with the knowledge that his splendid equipage had been obtained at the price of a lovely woman’s regrets.
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