a vicar (= a Church of England priest) in a traditional English song. He changes his religious and political beliefs according to the beliefs of the ruling king or queen, and is concerned only with keeping his job. The name ‘Vicar of Bray’ is sometimes used to describe somebody who is prepared to change their beliefs to gain some advantage.
VICAR OF BRAY
Meaning of VICAR OF BRAY in English
Oxford guide to British and American culture English vocabulary. Руководство по британской и американской культуре, Оксфордский английский словарь. 2005