# archdiocese

/ˈɑɹtʃˈdaɪəsəs/ (US) · /ˌɑːtʃdɪəʊsˈiːz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/archdiocese
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a large and important area that a high-ranking church leader, called an archbishop, is in charge of. It usually includes several smaller church areas.

For teachers: the district or jurisdiction under the pastoral care of an archbishop. It typically serves as the primary see of an ecclesiastical province, overseeing subordinate dioceses.

## Examples

- The archdiocese manages many local schools and charities.
- The local bishop reported directly to the head of the archdiocese regarding the new community project.
- Administrative restructuring within the archdiocese led to the consolidation of several historic parishes to better allocate dwindling financial resources and clergy members.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the definite article when referring to a specific geographic region.

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