prelacy

American  

[prel-uh-see] / ˈprɛl ə si /

noun

plural

prelacies

1. the office or dignity of a prelate, or high-ranking member of the Christian clergy.

2. the order of prelates.

3. the body of prelates collectively.

4. Sometimes Disparaging. the system of church government by prelates.

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prelacy British  

/ ˈprɛləsɪ /

noun

1. Also called: prelature. 

   1. the office or status of a prelate

   2. prelates collectively

2. Also called: prelatism.  derogatory government of the Church by prelates

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Etymology

Origin of prelacy

1275–1325; Middle English prelacie < Anglo-French < Medieval Latin praelātia. See prelate, -y ³

Example Sentences

Something more was required to render that success permanent by arousing anew the trust and confidence of the people, and that something could not be supplied by a worldly and ambitious prelacy.

From A History of The Inquisition of The Middle Ages; volume I by Lea, Henry Charles

Twice did I see old prelacy pulled down, And twice the cloak did sink beneath the gown.

From Curious Epitaphs by Various

Pope Pius II., in his memoirs, called him "An ornament to the prelacy."

From Some Jewish Witnesses For Christ by B.D.

Considering how bishoprics go in the present day, we are astonished how the prelacy of Durham can pay at the price, and how, in fact, the bishop can manage to do it for the money.

From Punch - Volume 25 (Jul-Dec 1853) by Various

The western and eastern prelacy subscribed in compliance with their sovereign to the Arian creed, which, as Du Pin has shown, was signed by his infallibility, Pope Liberius.

From The Christian Foundation, Or, Scientific and Religious Journal, Volume I, No. 10. October, 1880 by Walker, Aaron

Related Words

• priesthood