hierarch

[ hahy-uh-rahrk, hahy-rahrk ]

noun

1. a person who rules or has authority in sacred matters; high priest.
2. a person having high position or considerable authority.
3. one of a body of officials or minor priests in certain ancient Greek temples.

hierarch

/ ˈhaɪəˌrɑːk /

noun

1. 1. a person in a position of high priestly authority
   2. a person holding high rank in a religious hierarchy
2. a person at a high level in a hierarchy

Derived Forms

• ˌhierˈarchal, adjective

Other Words From

• hier·archal adjective
• anti·hier·archal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hierarch¹

1480–90; < Medieval Latin hierarcha < Greek hierárchēs steward of sacred rites, equivalent to hier- hier- + -archēs -arch

Example Sentences

“I had the honor of knowing a hierarch who did not hesitate to directly express his opinion, regardless of whether this would displease his interlocutor or even a section of society,” Anastasiades said.

From Seattle Times

“The only mystery of this story is why someone wanted to have a trial about an issue that the hierarchs of the Holy See wanted to conclude with a deal,” the lawyers said.

From Washington Times

“The only mystery of this story is why someone wanted to have a trial about an issue that the hierarchs of the Holy See wanted to close with a deal,” the lawyers said.

From Seattle Times

Ukraine has been a particular source of antagonism between the two hierarchs.

From New York Times

After spending the first eight years of his papacy gently nudging Catholic hierarchs to embrace financial prudence and responsible governance, Francis got tough this year, and appears poised to keep it that way.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• bishop