consistory

Meanings

1. A solemn assembly or council.
2. The spiritual court of a diocesan bishop held before his chancellor or commissioner in his cathedral church or elsewhere.
3. An assembly of prelates; a session of the College of Cardinals at Rome.
4. A church tribunal or governing body, especially of elders in a Reformed church.
5. A civil court of justice.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English consistorie, from Old Northern French consistorie (“secular tribunal”) (Old French consistoire), and Late Latin consistorium (“waiting room, meeting place of the imperial council”). Meaning "Church council" is from early 14th century.