1. the territory or jurisdiction governed by an exarch, especially in the Byzantine Empire or Eastern Orthodox Church
Usage: historical; ecclesiastical
2. the office or position of an exarch
Usage: ecclesiastical

Examples

• The Exarchate of Ravenna was established by the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century.
• The exarchate included much of central and northern Italy under Byzantine control.
• He was appointed to govern the exarchate with both civil and military authority.
• The exarchate of Africa was one of the most important Byzantine territories.
• The fall of the exarchate marked the end of Byzantine influence in the region.
• Church officials discussed the boundaries of the new exarchate.