Bishop
/ˈbɪʃəp/
nounBeginnerCommonGeneral
Meaning
Question
Definitions
1
A high-ranking clergyman in the Christian church, usually responsible for overseeing a diocese.
/ˈbɪʃəp/
nounneutralBeginner
General
A senior member of the Christian clergy.
The bishop blessed the new church building.
💡 Simply: A very important person in the church.
More Examples
2
She was ordained a bishop last year.
How It's Used
Religion
"The bishop delivered a powerful sermon."
From Old English *biscop, from Late Latin episcopus, from Greek ἐπίσκοπος (epískopos, "overseer"), from ἐπί (epí, "upon, over") + σκοπεῖν (skopeîn, "to look, watch").
The word 'bishop' has been used in English since Old English times, with its meaning largely consistent throughout history, relating to a high-ranking church official.
Memory tip
Think of 'overseer' - bishops oversee their diocese.
Practice
bishapbishiop
Usage
20%Spoken
80%Written