noun
- high-ranking clergy members, especially bishops, archbishops, or other church officials of superior rank
Usage: formal; ecclesiastical
Examples
- The prelates gathered at the cathedral for the consecration ceremony.
- Several prelates attended the Vatican council meeting.
- The archbishop was one of the most respected prelates in the region.
- Medieval prelates often held significant political power.
- The prelates wore their ceremonial robes during the service.
- Young priests aspired to become prelates someday.