What does prelature mean?
A prelature is a territorial division governed by a prelate, especially a bishop or archbishop. In Catholicism, it refers to a specific region or diocese. The prelature is responsible for the spiritual well-being of its members. It is often used to refer to a large and influential Catholic organization. The term 'prelature' is derived from the Latin 'praepositus', meaning 'placed before'. It is an important concept in Catholicism, and is used to describe the governance and structure of the Church. The prelature is a key part of the Catholic Church's hierarchy, and plays a vital role in the spiritual lives of its members. It is a term that is widely used in Catholicism, and is an important part of the Church's tradition and history.
nounA territorial division governed by a prelate, especially a bishop or archbishop.
- A territorial division governed by a prelate.
"The prelature of Opus Dei is a large and influential Catholic organization."
"The prelature of Opus Dei is a large and influential Catholic organization."
"The prelature is responsible for the spiritual well-being of its members."
The plural form 'prelatures' is used to refer to multiple territorial divisions governed by prelates.
"The Catholic Church has many prelatures around the world."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of prelature
The term 'prelature' is derived from the Latin 'praepositus', which means 'placed before'. This Latin term is a combination of 'prae', meaning 'before', and 'positus', meaning 'placed'. The term 'prelature' has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to a territorial division governed by a prelate.
Usage notes
In Catholicism, a prelature is a territorial division governed by a prelate, especially a bishop or archbishop. It is often used to refer to a specific region or diocese.