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

Barron, the prelate of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, is delivering an address at President Donald Trump’s Rededicate 250 event on Sunday. —Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 17 May 2026

In roughly 33 hours over the course of two days, the diverse group of international prelates elected Prevost on the fourth ballot. —Angie Leventis Lourgos, Chicago Tribune, 6 May 2026

Barron’s criticism of the president was a rare public disapproval from the prelate, Winona-Rochester diocese’s highest-ranking Catholic figure, who, for the most part, has had a comfortable relationship with the Trump administration. —Matthew Stolle, Twin Cities, 15 Apr. 2026

George was a highly influential, politically astute prelate who died almost a decade before Leo XIV’s election. —Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 14 Mar. 2026

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)