epistle🔊

A literary composition in the form of a letter or series of letters, especially one in verse.

(chiefly literary or humorous) A letter, especially one which is formal or issued publicly.

(historical) A letter of dedication addressed to a patron or reader published as a preface to a literary work.

(Christianity) One of the books of the New Testament which was originally a letter issued by an apostle to an individual or a community.

(Christianity) An extract from a New Testament epistle or book other than a gospel which is read during a church service, chiefly the Eucharist.

(chiefly literary or humorous) To write (something) in, or in the form of, a letter.

(chiefly literary or humorous, archaic) To write a letter to (someone).

(rare) To write (something) as an introduction or preface to a literary work; also, to provide (a literary work) with an introduction or preface.

(chiefly literary or humorous) To write a letter.

(chiefly literary or humorous) To communicate with someone through a letter.