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Archbishop: meaning, definitions and examples

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archbishop

 

[ˈɑːrtʃˌbɪʃəp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

religious leader

An archbishop is a bishop of the highest rank who presides over other bishops in a specific region. Archbishops are usually in charge of an archdiocese and have authority over a group of dioceses.

Synonyms

bishop, prelate, primate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
archbishop

Use 'archbishop' to refer to a high-ranking official in the Christian clergy who oversees an archdiocese, which is larger than a diocese. Generally, an archbishop has more authority than a bishop.

  • The archbishop delivered a moving sermon during the Easter service.
  • Archbishop Collins has been appointed to oversee the new archdiocese.
bishop

Use 'bishop' to refer to a clergy member in Christian denominations who oversees a diocese or a group of churches within a specific area. The bishop ranks below an archbishop.

  • The bishop of the diocese is visiting our church next Sunday.
  • Bishop O'Connor has been very active in community outreach programs.
primate

Use 'primate' to refer to a bishop of the highest rank in certain Christian churches, particularly in the Anglican and Eastern Orthodox traditions. The primate is usually the head of the national church.

  • The primate of the Anglican Church in England is the Archbishop of Canterbury.
  • The primate issued a statement addressing the recent events in the country.
prelate

Use 'prelate' in formal or literary contexts to refer to high-ranking clergy officials, including bishops and archbishops. It is a general term that does not specify a particular rank.

  • The prelate gave a lengthy address at the interfaith conference.
  • As a prelate, he has considerable influence in ecclesiastical decisions.

Examples of usage

  • The archbishop led the ceremony at the cathedral.
  • Archbishops play a key role in the governance of the church.
  • She was appointed as the archbishop of the province.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'archbishop' comes from the Old English 'earcbiscop', meaning 'chief bishop'.
  • The role dates back to the early Christian Church, where bishops were responsible for overseeing their communities.
  • In medieval Europe, archbishops held significant power, often influencing political decisions in addition to spiritual ones.

Religious Structure

  • In many Christian denominations, an archbishop is responsible for a province, which is a group of dioceses.
  • Archbishops often convene councils to make decisions affecting the church and its practices.
  • They also participate in major ceremonies and represent their church in interfaith activities.

Cultural Significance

  • In the Anglican Church, the Archbishop of Canterbury is a globally recognized figure, often seen as a spiritual leader.
  • Many cultures have depicted archbishops in art, emphasizing their authority and role within society.
  • Archbishops may have unique ceremonial dress, which includes a mitre (a type of hat) and a crosier (a ceremonial staff).

Pop Culture

  • Archbishops occasionally appear in films or literature, symbolizing authority and moral guidance.
  • Fictional portrayals often reflect the tension between religious authority and personal beliefs in stories.

Modern Roles

  • Today, archbishops engage in social issues, voicing opinions on matters such as justice, peace, and community welfare.
  • They can play key roles in interfaith dialogues, promoting understanding between different religions.
  • Many archbishops use media, including social platforms, to connect with a broader audience and speak on contemporary issues.

Translations

Translations of the word "archbishop" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arcebispo

🇮🇳 महाधर्माध्यक्ष

🇩🇪 Erzbischof

🇮🇩 uskup agung

🇺🇦 архієпископ

🇵🇱 arcybiskup

🇯🇵 大主教 (だいしゅきょう)

🇫🇷 archevêque

🇪🇸 arzobispo

🇹🇷 başpiskopos

🇰🇷 대주교 (daejugyo)

🇸🇦 رئيس الأساقفة

🇨🇿 arcibiskup

🇸🇰 arcibiskup

🇨🇳 大主教 (dàzhǔjiào)

🇸🇮 nadškof

🇮🇸 erkibiskup

🇰🇿 архиепископ

🇬🇪 არქიეპისკოპოსი

🇦🇿 arxiyepiskop

🇲🇽 arzobispo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,572, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.