prelate

American  

[prel-it] / ˈprɛl ɪt /

noun

1. an ecclesiastic of a high order, as an archbishop, bishop, etc.; a church dignitary.

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prelate British  

/ prɪˈlætɪk, ˈprɛlɪt /

noun

1. a Church dignitary of high rank, such as a cardinal, bishop, or abbot

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Other Word Forms

• nonprelatic adjective
• prelateship noun
• prelatic adjective
• unprelatic adjective

Etymology

Origin of prelate

1175–1225; Middle English prelat < Medieval Latin praelātus a civil or ecclesiastical dignitary, noun use of Latin praelātus (past participle of praeferre to prefer ), equivalent to prae- pre- + lātus, suppletive past participle of ferre to bear ¹

Example Sentences

Though not a fan of trips to the Vatican or of hierarchy and power plays, Bergoglio evidently earned the respect of his fellow senior prelates, the red-hatted “princes of the church.”

From Los Angeles Times

One of the most outspoken prelates has been Bishop Seraphim of Piraeus.

From BBC

But the prelates cited "numerous cases of irregularities that could affect the integrity of the results of different ballots, in certain places".

From BBC

The prelate noted the dilemma posed by “Fiducia Supplians,” released on Dec. 18, in which the church declares such blessings may be performed.

From Washington Times

Citing the teachings of the modernizing Second Vatican Council, he urged the assembled prelates to listen to one another, discern decisions and then journey forward, without being tied to preconceived prejudices.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• bishop