prelate

noun

prel·​ate ˈpre-lət 

 also  ˈprē-ˌlāt

: an ecclesiastic (such as a bishop or abbot) of superior rank

Examples of prelate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Parolin is a mild-mannered, thoughtful Italian prelate who oversees the Vatican’s diplomacy, which has included a provisional agreement with China over the appointment of bishops. —Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 2 May 2025

Echoing his time as a prelate in Argentina, Pope Francis was at times criticized from both sides of the aisle for his heavy hand enforcing Catholic unity on national and international levels. —Caitlin McFall, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2025

Parolin, a mild mannered, thoughtful prelate, is an experienced diplomat from northern Italy who leads engagement in geopolitics and has been instrumental in brokering the Holy See’s agreement with China. —Christopher Lamb, CNN, 8 Mar. 2025

Tagle, a prelate from the Philippines, is currently one of two top candidates to replace Francis, alongside Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State. —Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English prelat, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin praelatus, literally, one receiving preferment, from Latin (past participle of praeferre to prefer), from prae- + latus, past participle of ferre to carry — more at tolerate, bear

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing prelate

• domestic prelate

Rhymes for prelate

• chelate
• pellet
• zealot
• appellate

Kids Definition

prelate

noun

prel·​ate ˈprel-ət 

: a high-ranking member of the clergy (as a bishop)