vicar
UK: ˈvɪkə | US: ˈvɪkər
n. 1. A clergyman in the Anglican Church who acts as a representative of a higher-ranking official (e.g., a bishop).
n. 2. (Historical) A parish priest in the Roman Catholic Church who acted as a deputy.
n. 3. (Figurative) A substitute or deputy in a non-religious context.
The word "vicar" traces back to Latin vicarius, which referred to a stand-in or delegate (from vicis, meaning "change" or "alternation"). In medieval Christianity, it denoted a priest acting as a bishop’s deputy. Over time, it became specifically associated with Anglican clergy. The core idea of substitution or representation persists in both religious and secular uses.
The vicar delivered a heartfelt sermon on Sunday.
In the bishop’s absence, the vicar managed parish affairs.
She served as a vicar for the absent professor.
The title "vicar" originally implied delegated authority.
His role was merely vicar, not the ultimate decision-maker.