Exarch (Noun)
Meaning 1
A viceroy who governed a large province in the Roman Empire.
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- The exarch was appointed by the emperor to govern the distant province of Italy, which included modern-day Italy, Sicily, Sardinia, and parts of southern France.
- In the 6th century, the Eastern Roman Empire began to use the title exarch for the governors of its key provinces, including Italy and Africa.
- Justinian's creation of the exarchate in Ravenna marked the beginning of a new era of imperial control over Italy, and the exarch was given significant military and administrative authority.
- As the exarch of Italy, Longinus led the defense of Rome against the Gothic king Totila in the 6th century.
- Despite his loyalty to the emperor, the exarch of Africa led a rebellion against the imperial government in an attempt to assert his independence.
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
A bishop in eastern Christendom who holds a place below a patriarch but above a metropolitan.
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- The exarch was tasked with overseeing the eparchies within his assigned region, mediating disputes and recommending clergy promotions to the patriarch.
- A high-ranking clergyman within the Eastern Orthodox Church, the exarch occupied a position of great authority and respect among his contemporaries.
- As the designated exarch for the region, he conducted official visits to monasteries and churches, ensuring compliance with established rituals and customs.
- During the early centuries of Eastern Christendom, the office of exarch emerged as an essential link between local eparchies and the patriarchal see.
- By virtue of his position as exarch, the bishop wielded significant influence over ecclesiastical matters, frequently serving as the patriarch's representative at councils and synods.
Meaning 3
A bishop in one of several Eastern Orthodox Churches in North America.
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- The exarch of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America played a crucial role in promoting unity among Orthodox churches in North America.
- As the exarch, he worked closely with other church leaders to coordinate efforts and address common challenges.
- The exarch was a key figure in the establishment of new Orthodox parishes and missions across the United States and Canada.
- During his tenure as exarch, the church experienced significant growth and expansion in North America.
- The ecumenical patriarch appointed a new exarch to oversee the church's affairs in the Americas.