Christian Church. Of a prior: appointed by an abbot and removable at will; (of a priory) governed by such a prior. Opposed to conventual (see prior…

Of a person holding an office, position, etc.: subject to removal or dismissal; not permanent. Now chiefly in predicative use.

Church History. Of a person holding an ecclesiastical office: not permanent; subject to removal; removable (removable, adj. 2). Also as a…

That may be deposed; liable to be deposed.

Of a person: subject to removal or dismissal from an office or position; removable.

Liable to be dismissed or discharged.