Etymology Map
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Vicar

3 stages from Latin to English.

Today it means a priest in charge of a Church of England parish

Where does the word "vicar" come from? It comes from Latin vicarius, passing through Old French before entering English (1300s).

1
Stage 1 of 3
vicarius
Latin · ancient
"substitute"
from 'vicis', change or turn, the root of 'vice-' and 'vicarious'
2
Stage 2 of 3
vicaire
Old French · medieval
"deputy"
a priest standing in for a rector or monastery
3
Stage 3 of 3
vicar
English · 1300s
"parish priest"
the Pope's title 'Vicar of Christ' keeps the deputy sense
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Read the full story

Vicar’s story begins in Latin: vicarius meant “substitute.” From 'vicis', change or turn, the root of 'vice-' and 'vicarious'. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as vicaire. A priest standing in for a rector or monastery. It reached English by 1300s as vicar. The Pope's title 'Vicar of Christ' keeps the deputy sense. Today, vicar means a priest in charge of a Church of England parish.