Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Prelate \Prel"ate\ (?; 48), n. [F. pr['e]lat, 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.

   Note: This word and the words derived from it are often used
         invidiously, in English ecclesiastical history, by
         dissenters, respecting the Established Church system.

               Hear him but reason in divinity, . . . You would
               desire the king were made a prelate. --Shak.

Prelate \Prel"ate\, v. i.
   To act as a prelate. [Obs.]

         Right prelating is busy laboring, and not lording.
                                                  --Latimer.

Source : WordNet®

prelate
     n : a senior clergyman and dignitary [syn: {archpriest}, {hierarch},
          {high priest}, {primate}]