subdeacon
nounEtymology Originated 1275–1325 from Middle English subdecon and -dekene, from Late Latin subdiāconus. Equivalent to sub- + deacon.
1
Catholicism, Christianity Historical A Catholic clerical rank in the major orders below that of a deacon.
2
Catholicism, Christianity Historical A Catholic cleric who assists the deacon at High Mass and normally reads the Epistle at the Eucharist.
3
A layperson who acts as an assistant to the deacon during the celebration of mass.
4
The highest of the minor orders below that of a deacon.
Eastern Orthodoxy
- Derived terms
- subdeaconship