prelate

noun

prel·​ate ˈpre-lət How to pronounce prelate (audio)
 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 Turkson is a viable choice, widely respected, liked by Pope Francis, and theologically and ‘politically’ palatable to Western prelates, but his visibility has dimmed in recent years. Paul Tilsley, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2025 Unlike the Roman prelate, though, Bukele is more than happy to keep his hands filthy with an unjust persecution. Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 19 Apr. 2025 The prelate suggested that any rush toward legalizing civil divorce could undermine Filipino families – the foundational aspect of society, according to the country’s constitution. Mark Saludes, The Christian Science Monitor, 9 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for prelate

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of prelate was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Prelate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prelate. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

prelate

noun
prel·​ate ˈprel-ət How to pronounce prelate (audio)
: a high-ranking member of the clergy (as a bishop)

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