C1noun10K+

Bishop

UK /["/ˈbɪʃəp/"]/US /["/ˈbɪʃəp/"]/

Definition

a senior priest in charge of the work of the Church in a city or district

In simple words: A high-ranking church leader.

Examples

  • the Bishop of Oxford
  • Bishop Pritchard
  • He was appointed Bishop of Ely.
  • He’s the diocesan bishop and he has three suffragan bishops to help him.

Usage notes

Used in religious contexts, especially in Christianity. It's more formal and may not be appropriate in casual conversations without context. Often appears in discussions about church hierarchy or religious ceremonies.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'bishop' in chess, an important piece that moves strategically.

Collocations

  • Anglican
  • Catholic
  • Orthodox
  • appoint
  • appoint somebody (as)
  • be elected
  • bishop of

Synonyms

  • clergyman
  • prelate
  • ecclesiastic
  • minister
  • religious leader

Antonyms

  • pawn
  • rook
  • knight
  • queen

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'priest' - a bishop is a higher rank.
  • Using 'bishop' in casual slang contexts - it's more formal.
  • Incorrectly capitalizing 'bishop' when used generically.