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prior

The superior of a priory, and next below an abbot in dignity. Conventical, or Conventual, prior, a prior who is at the head of his own house. See the note under Priory. Claustral prior, an official next in rank to the abbot in a monastery; prior of the cloisters.

Origin: OE. Priour, OF. Priour, prior, priur, F. Prieur, from L. Prior former, superior. See Prior.