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adj. 1. a. Of or relating to shepherds or herders. b. Of, relating to, or used for animal husbandry. 2. a. Of or relating to the country or country life; rural. b. Charmingly simple and serene; idyllic. See Synonyms at rural. 3. Of, relating to, or being a literary or other artistic work that portrays or evokes rural life, usually in an idealized way. 4. Of or relating to a pastor or the duties of a pastor: pastoral duties; a pastoral letter. n. 1. A literary or other artistic work that portrays or evokes rural life, usually in an idealized way. 2. Music A pastorale. pastor·al·ly adv.  (click for a larger image) pastoralShepherdess with her Sheep by Franz Marc |
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