(Fr. doyen, the eldest of a corporation; Lat. decanus, from decem, one set over ten persons), in England, is an ecclesiastical dignitary in a cathedral or a collegiate church, and the head of a chapter. He is the second dignitary of a diocese; and was so named because originally he was set over ten canons or prebendaries. In former times the dean was elected by the chapter, in virtue of a consilium d'élire from the king, and letters missive of recommendation; but in the chapters founded by Henry VIII. out of the spoils of the monasteries, the deanery is donative, and the installation merely by royal letters patent.

A Rural Dean, or arch-presbyter, had jurisdiction originally over ten churches; but afterwards he became only the bishop's substitute, to grant letters of administration, probate of wills, &c. The office is now merged in that of the archdeacon and chancellor.

Deans in Peculiar, are deans of particular parishes and churches, or of rural districts that have jurisdiction within themselves, being independent of the ordinary of the diocese.

Dean and Chapter, the council of a bishop, to aid him with their advice in the affairs of his see. See Chapter.

Deans of the Chapel Royal. See Chaplain.

Dean of a Monastery, a superior established under the abbot, to whom was intrusted the care of ten monks: hence his name.

Dean of Guild, in the municipal system of Scotland, the head of the merchant company or guildry, who has the superintendence of all buildings, public and private, within the burgh; and in this respect his functions may be said to resemble those of the ediles of ancient Rome. See Guild.

Dean of the Faculty of Advocates, in Edinburgh, the president and chief officer of that body.

There are also deans of the several faculties in the universities.

Dean, Forest of. See Gloucestershire.