episcopate

[ ih-pis-kuh-pit, -peyt ]

/ ɪˈpɪs kə pɪt, -ˌpeɪt /

the office and dignity of a bishop; bishopric.

the order or body of bishops.

the incumbency of a bishop.

the diocese of a bishop.

Origin of episcopate

First recorded in 1635–45, episcopate is from the Late Latin word episcopātus the office of a bishop. See bishop, -ate³

In his brief he spoke in the highest terms of the Spanish episcopate, and of the piety and heroic devotion of the priesthood.

The War Upon Religion |Rev. Francis A. Cunningham
Irish names occupy a conspicuous and honored place in the roster of the Australian episcopate.

The Glories of Ireland |Edited by Joseph Dunn and P.J. Lennox
The episcopate of Melance and of Hidulfe, the successors to Pretextat, offers no very particular circumstances.

Rouen, It's History and Monuments |Thodore Licquet
What was really due to him was the organization of the episcopate, and the impulse which this gave to national unity.

History of the English People, Volume I (of 8) |John Richard Green

On the other hand, the renewed energy of the Church in Wessex led to an extension of the episcopate south of the Thames.

The English Church in the Middle Ages |William Hunt

episcopate

/ (ɪˈpɪskəpɪt, -ˌpeɪt) /

the office, status, or term of office of a bishop

bishops collectively