protopope
(ˈprəʊtəʊpəʊp)
[ad. Russ. protopop{supu}: see proto- and pope n.2; after eccl. Gr. πρωτοπαπᾶς protopapas. So F. protopope.]
A chief priest, or priest of higher rank, in the Greek Church.
| 1662 J. Davies tr. Olearius' Voy. Ambass. 136 A Protopope of Casanskey, whose name was Juan Neronou, began to inveigh against the honour done to Images. 1784 Coxe Trav. Poland, etc. II. 103 The highest dignity to which they can ever attain, as long as they continue married, is that of protopope of a cathedral. 1900 Pilot 7 July 6/2 One formerly a playmate, but now the fiercest opponent of Nikon, the protopop Avvakum. |