An envoy of the Holy See who brings the insignia of office to a newly appointed cardinal.
((n.) A representative of the pope charged with important
commissions in foreign countries, one of his duties being to bring to a
newly named cardinal his insignia of office.)
Origin:
Early 19th century; earliest use found in The Times. Either from French ablégat, or from classical Latin ablegātus, past participle of ablegāre. Compare Italian ablegato.