German word

Bischof

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈbɪʃɔf/

Meaning

  • masculine nounbishop

Example

Wir haben den Bischof gestern im Dom gesehen.

We saw the bishop in the cathedral yesterday.

Illustration for Bischof (bishop)

More examples

Ich habe den Bischof getroffen.

I met the bishop.

Core concept

A senior church leader at a cathedral, representing a regional church body in worship and public affairs.

Common phrases

  • den Bischof treffen

    meet the bishop

Similar words

Pfarrer: A parish minister responsible for local worship and members' pastoral needs.
Priester: A priest who performs religious ceremonies and administers Holy Communion.
Erzbischof: A bishop with authority over several dioceses.
Diakon: A clergy member who supports worship and performs practical church service.

Definition in German

Ein Bischof ist das Oberhaupt einer kirchlichen Verwaltungseinheit und vertritt die Kirche nach außen.

Word origin

The German noun Bischof comes through Old High German biscof from Latin episcopus, borrowed from Greek episkopos, meaning 'overseer'.

Usage tips

  • Bischof is masculine: der Bischof, with plural die Bischöfe; the umlaut changes the vowel in the plural.

Word lists with this word