A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
The defense of a right or claim, especially by public authority whether civil or ecclesiastical. As a form of justice, it is the imposing of a penalty or retribution because of wrong done. (Etym. Latin vindicare, to claim, defend, revenge; from vindex, claimant, defender, avenger.)
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.