\Prel"a*cy\, n.; pl. {Prelacies}. [LL. praelatia. See
{Prelate}; cf. {Prelaty}.]
1. The office or dignity of a prelate; church government by
   prelates.
         Prelacies may be termed the greater benefices.
                                               --Ayliffe.
2. The order of prelates, taken collectively; the body of
   ecclesiastical dignitaries. ``Divers of the reverend
   prelacy, and other most judicious men.'' --Hooker.