1. plural of cardinalship; the office, rank, or position of a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church
Usage: formal; religious context
2. plural of cardinalship; the period of time during which someone holds the rank of cardinal
Usage: formal; religious context

Examples

• Several cardinalships became vacant after the retirements were announced.
• The Church recognized the contributions made during their cardinalships.
• Multiple cardinalships were filled by the Pope in a single ceremony.
• His cardinalship lasted for over thirty years of devoted service.
• The cardinalships held by these men shaped the direction of the diocese.