literally elevation or height; but usually a rising ground, or a hill of moderate elevation above the adjacent country, &c.

as a title of honour, was first given to cardinals by a papal decree bearing date Jan. 10, 1630; previous to which time they had been addressed as *illustrissimi* and *recendissimi*. The title of Eminence has been applied to various dignitaries at different times; as to the grand master of Malta, to the kings of France, the emperor, &c.