ARCHBISHOP, the name of a church dignitary of the first class. There are but two now in England, viz. those of Canterbury and York.—The archbishop of Canterbury is considered as the first peer of England, next to the royal family: he writes himself, by Divine Providence; and has the title of Grace given him, as to dukes; and likewise Most Reverend Father in God. He is styled Primate of all England, and Metropolitan.—The archbishop of York has precedence of dukes and great officers of state, except the lord chancellor: his title is Grace, and Most Reverend Father in God; and writes himself, as other bishops do, by Divine Permission. He is styled Primate of England, and Metropolitan.
Scotland, whilst episcopacy prevailed in that country, had two archbishops, of St Andrews and Glasgow; the former of whom was primate of all Scotland.
Ireland has four archbishops; of Armagh, Dublin, Cashel, and Tuam; of whom the former is primate of all Ireland.