The term bishopess is not a commonly used word in the English language. However, it has been used in some contexts to refer to female bishops. This article aims to provide a definition and meaning of bishopess, its origin, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
Bishopess is a noun that refers to a female bishop. A bishop is a high-ranking member of the Christian clergy who is in charge of a diocese or region. Therefore, a bishopess is a female bishop who holds similar responsibilities as a male bishop.
Origin
The word bishopess is a combination of two words, bishop and -ess. The suffix -ess is used to indicate a female gender. The term bishopess first appeared in the English language in the 17th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The term bishopess is not commonly used in modern English and is not found in most dictionaries. However, some dictionaries have included the word bishopess, and they define it as a female bishop.
Associations
The term bishopess is mostly associated with the ordination of women as bishops in the Christian Church. The issue of women’s ordination has been a controversial topic in many Christian denominations. Some denominations have allowed the ordination of women as bishops, while others have not.
Synonyms
There are no direct synonyms of bishopess. However, the term female bishop or woman bishop can be used instead of bishopess.
Antonyms
The antonyms of bishopess are male bishop or simply bishop.
The same root words
The root word of bishopess is bishop, which comes from the Greek word episkopos, meaning overseer.
Example Sentences
- The bishopess was the first woman to be ordained as a bishop in the Anglican Church.
- The bishopess was responsible for the spiritual wellbeing of her diocese.
- The bishopess presided over the ordination of new priests in her diocese.