episcopate

[ ih-pis-kuh-pit, -peyt ]

noun

1. the office and dignity of a bishop; bishopric.
2. the order or body of bishops.
3. the incumbency of a bishop.
4. the diocese of a bishop.

episcopate

/ ɪˈpɪskəpɪt; -ˌpeɪt /

noun

1. the office, status, or term of office of a bishop
2. bishops collectively

Word History and Origins

Origin of episcopate¹

First recorded in 1635–45, episcopate is from the Late Latin word episcopātus the office of a bishop. See bishop, -ate ³

Example Sentences

After a years episcopate he was first banished and then beheaded under Gallus, a worthy successor in persecution of Decius.

From Project Gutenberg

One condition, however, they laid down as absolutely indispensable—the restoration of a legitimate episcopate.

From Project Gutenberg

One result of an hereditary Episcopate is that the bishop is often absurdly young in years.

From Project Gutenberg

His epitaph says that during his episcopate he kept "nobyl Houshold wyth grete Hospitality."

From Project Gutenberg

The government however was far from quailing before the division of the episcopate.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• district