Definition

1. Noun:
   • An honorary title in the Roman Catholic Church: A domestic prelate is a priest who has been granted the honorary title of being a member of the papal household. This is a distinction of honor and does not typically involve residing at or performing daily duties in the Vatican.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The bishop appointed him a domestic prelate in recognition of his decades of service.
  • As a domestic prelate, he is entitled to wear certain vestments and use the title "Monsignor."

Advanced Usage

• "To be created a domestic prelate": To be formally granted the title by papal authority.
  • He was created a domestic prelate by the Pope last year.

Variants and Related Words

• Monsignor (n): A title of honor for certain clergy in the Roman Catholic Church, often used by domestic prelates.
  • The letter was addressed to Monsignor Smith, a domestic prelate.

Synonyms

• Papal Chamberlain (n, historical): An older, related honorary title within the papal household.
• Prelate (n): A high-ranking member of the clergy, such as a bishop. (Note: "Domestic prelate" is a specific type of prelate.)

Related Phrases

• "Of the papal household": A phrase describing the honorary affiliation.
  • His status as a domestic prelate means he is considered of the papal household.

Related Idioms

Noun

1. (Roman Catholic Church) a priest who is an honorary member of the papal household