Bishop

Definition

Bishop refers to a high-ranking Christian clergy member who oversees a diocese and has the authority to perform certain religious rites, such as ordination and confirmation. In chess, it also denotes a piece that moves diagonally across the board.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɪʃəp/
• Respelling: BISH-uhp

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɪʃəp/
• Respelling: BISH-uhp

The pronunciation of "bishop" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "bishop" originates from the Old English term "bisceop," derived from the Latin "episcopus" and Greek "episkopos," meaning "overseer" or "guardian." It has been used in the Christian religious context since early Christianity to describe a senior cleric responsible for overseeing a diocese.

Derivatives

• Episcopal (adjective)
• Bishopric (noun)
• Bishophood (noun)
• Archbishop (noun)
• Subbishop (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Cleric
• Prelate
• Pastor

Antonyms

• Layperson
• Secular
• None

Usage

The term "bishop" is widely used in both religious and secular contexts. In Christian denominations, bishops are high-ranking officials with authority over other clergy and responsibility for overseeing diocesan affairs. The term is also familiar in the game of chess, where a bishop is a piece that moves diagonally across the board. Additionally, in historical contexts, a bishop might refer to a figure with social influence or a significant position within the church hierarchy.

Related Terms

• Diocese: A district under the pastoral care of a bishop.
• Ordination: The process by which individuals are consecrated, typically as clergy.
• Archbishop: A bishop of higher rank who oversees an archdiocese.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A senior member of the Christian clergy: Refers to a religious leader who supervises a diocese and has the authority to conduct certain sacraments and rituals.
  • Example: "The bishop presided over the ordination ceremony."
• A piece in the game of chess: Describes a chess piece that moves diagonally and is typically valued for its range across the board.
  • Example: "He sacrificed his bishop to gain a tactical advantage."