adj
presbyterian
prehz-bih-TEERR-ih-uhn
adj
1
Relating to a form of church government run by elected elders (presbyters) rather than bishops.
"The presbyterian model gives more authority to lay elders than a bishop-led church does."
noun
1
A member of a church that follows this elder-led form of government, especially in the Presbyterian tradition.
"Her grandparents were lifelong Presbyterians."
How to Use Presbyterian
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes a Christian church tradition governed by elected elders instead of bishops.
UK vs US
Usually capitalized ("Presbyterian") when referring to the specific denomination.
Word Forms
more presbyterian comparative, Presbyterians plural, most presbyterian superlative
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The _____ model gives more authority to lay elders than a bishop-led church does.
Etymology
From "presbyter" (an elder in the early church), from Greek presbyteros, "older man."