protopope

[ proh-tuh-pohp ]

noun

1. the ranking priest in a cathedral of the Eastern Church.

Word History and Origins

Origin of protopope¹

1655–65; < Russian protopóp < Late Greek protopapâs. See proto-, pope

Example Sentences

One day I entered it, when the protopope, or dean, was baptizing an infant.

From Project Gutenberg

Then, hurriedly going up to the protopope, whispered something in his ear.

From Project Gutenberg

Under Peter's father one of the Raskol leaders, the protopope Avvakum, denounced "these bold-faced" men—bold-faced meaning shaven.

From Project Gutenberg