Prelate (?; 48), n. [F. prélat, LL. praelatus, fr. L. praelatus, used as p. p. of praeferre to prefer, but from a different root. See Elate.] A clergyman of a superior order, as an archbishop or a bishop, having authority over the lower clergy; a dignitary of the church.
[1913 Webster]

&hand_; This word and the words derived from it are often used invidiously, in English ecclesiastical history, by dissenters, respecting the Established Church system.
[1913 Webster]

Hear him but reason in divinity, . . .
You would desire the king were made a prelate. Shak.
[1913 Webster]