Archbishop

/ˈɑːr.tʃˌbɪʃ.əp/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A senior bishop in the church who oversees other bishops in a particular province or area.

The archbishop conducted the ceremonial mass at the cathedral.

A bishop of the highest rank in certain branches of the church.

The archbishop of Canterbury is a prominent figure in the Anglican Communion.

A clergy member who has authority over a geographical area and its associated bishops.

The archbishop announced new initiatives for community outreach.

An ecclesiastical leader in some religious denominations, symbolizing significant influence within the church.

The archbishop will address the congregation about the upcoming reforms.

From Middle English archbisshop, from Old English arcebisceop, meaning 'chief bishop', from 'arch-' meaning chief and 'bishop'.

Archbishop's position

The role and authority held by an archbishop.

Archbishop of Canterbury

The senior bishop of the Church of England, and symbolic leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion.

Archbishop's vestments

Special garments worn by an archbishop during religious services.

bishop

A clergyman ranked higher than a priest and typically responsible for overseeing a diocese.

diocese

A district under the pastoral care of a bishop in the Christian Church.

ecclesiastical

Relating to the Christian Church or its clergy.

Archie

Some refer to the archbishop casually as 'Archie' among trusted friends.