Definition of "investiture" noun countable and uncountable , plural investitures
The act of investing , as with possession or power ; formal bestowal or presentation of a possessory or prescriptive right . quotations examples
Quotations The rite of investiture , called , in the colloquially technical language of the order , the ceremony of clothing , brings us at once to the consideration of that well -known symbol of Freemasonry , the LAMB -SKIN APRON . This rite of investiture , or the placing upon the aspirant some garment , as an indication of his appropriate preparation for the ceremonies in which he was about to engage , prevailed in all the ancient initiations .
1882, Albert Mackey, “The Rite of Investiture”, in The Symbolism of Freemasonry
(specifically, chiefly historical) The formal installation or , generally , the appointment of a bishop , or (uncountable ) bishops in general . quotations
Quotations Raynelmus the 30. Bishop of Hereford receiving his investiture from King Henry the first , by the delivery of a Ring and Crosier , according to the Law and Custom of that Age , and afterwards resigning them into the Kings hands again to pleasure Anselme , against the Kings Prerogative , the King was so highly offended with him (as he had just cause ) that he presently banished him the Realm , and seised his Temporalties .
1668, A Seasonable Vindication of the Supreme Authority and Jurisdiction of Christian Kings, Lords, Parliaments, as well over the Possessions, as Persons of Delinquent Prelates and Church-men, page 72