cardinals
n. countablen. the most important priests in the Catholic Church who rank just below the Pope. They wear red robes and meet to choose a new Pope when the old one dies.
n. high-ranking officials of the Catholic Church who form the Sacred College and are responsible for electing the Pope. Often identified by their distinctive scarlet vestments.
The cardinals met in Rome to discuss church matters.
After the Pope passed away, cardinals from every continent traveled to the Vatican to participate in the secret election.
The historical influence of the cardinals extended far beyond spiritual guidance, as they often served as powerful political advisors to the monarchs of Europe during the Renaissance.
Usually capitalized when referring to the specific group or used as a title before a name.