Cathedral \Ca*the"dral\, n. [LL. cathedralis (sc. ecclesia): cf. F. cath['e]drale. See Cathedra.]

The principal church in a diocese, so called because in it the bishop has his official chair (Cathedra) or throne.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Cathedral \Ca*the"dral\, a. [LL. cathedralis: cf. F. cath['e]dral.]

1. Pertaining to the head church of a diocese; as, a cathedral church; cathedral service.

2. Emanating from the chair of office, as of a pope or bishop; official; authoritative.

Now, what solemnity can be more required for the pope to make a cathedral determination of an article! --Jer. Taylor.

3. Resembling the aisles of a cathedral; as, cathedral walks. --Pope.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)