Definition

Noun: - The office, position, or term of a prior: The state or condition of being a prior; the rank, duties, or period of service associated with the head of a priory or a monastic house ranking below an abbey.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • He was appointed to the priorship of the small monastery last year.
  • The duties of the priorship included both spiritual guidance and administrative oversight.
  • Her priorship was marked by significant reforms within the community.

Advanced Usage

• "To assume the priorship": To take on the office or role of prior.
  • Upon the retirement of Father John, Brother Martin was chosen to assume the priorship.
• "During one's priorship": Referring to events that occurred while someone held the position of prior.
  • The new chapel was built during his priorship.

Variants and Related Words

• Prior (n): The head of a priory or a monastic official.
  • The prior called the monks to prayer.
• Priory (n): A monastic house governed by a prior or prioress.
  • The ruins of the ancient priory are open to visitors.

Synonyms

• Headship: The position of being in charge.
• Superiority: The state of holding a higher rank, especially in a religious context. (Note: This is a more general term).

Notes on Meaning

This word specifically denotes the official position or tenure itself, not the person holding it (which is the "prior"). It is a formal term used primarily in historical or ecclesiastical contexts related to Christian monasticism.

Noun

1. the office of prior