Definitions:

1. The collective body of all bishops. NOUN
   • The global episcopate met to discuss doctrine and unity.
2. The office or rank of a bishop. NOUN
   • He entered the episcopate after serving as a priest for 20 years.
3. The period of time a bishop serves. NOUN
   • His reforms during his episcopate were widely praised.

Synonyms:

• bishopric
• diaconate
• diocese
• episcopacy
• presbytery