Archprelate

/ˈɑːrtʃˌprɛleɪt/ noun

Definition

A high-ranking church official of supreme status; a bishop or archbishop of the highest order or power.

Etymology

Arch- plus prelate (from Latin praelatus, one set before, from praeferre, to prefer or set above). This religious term was used to distinguish the most powerful church leaders.

Kelly Says

Medieval Catholics used 'archprelate' to rank church leaders—an archprelate outranked a regular prelate just like an archbishop outranks a regular bishop.

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