presbyter noun. ['prɛzbɪtǝ] L16.
[ecclesiastical Latin from Greek presbuteros, in New Testament = elder of the Sanhedrin or apostolic church, use as noun of compar. of presbus old (man): cf. PRIEST.]
1. a. In the early Christian church: one of a number of people having oversight of the affairs of a local church or congregation. Cf. BISHOP noun 1b. L16.
b. In an Episcopal Church: a minister of the second degree of holy orders, between bishop and deacon; a priest. L16.
c. In a Presbyterian Church: an elder; esp. a member of a presbytery. L16.
■ H. T. Buckle The main object was, to raise up presbyters, and to destroy bishops.

2. A Presbyterian. M17-E19.

■ pres'byteral adjective (a) of or pertaining to a presbyter or priest; consisting of presbyters; (b) = PRESBYTERIAN adjective 1: E17.

■ presbytership noun L16.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲