priesthood

noun

priest·​hood ˈprēst-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce priesthood (audio)
ˈprē-ˌstu̇d
1
: the office, dignity, or character of a priest
2
: the whole body of priests
3
: elite sense 1
the priesthood of the art world

Examples of priesthood in a Sentence

an ancient civilization that was ruled by a priesthood What is the influence of the priesthood in today's society?
Recent Examples on the Web But while the technologists are bullish on the economic impacts of AI, members of that other technocratic priesthood with profound influence over public life—the economists—are not. Will Henshall, TIME, 16 Apr. 2024 The pastor had none of the religious training of the Catholic priesthood. Bishop Sand, Washington Post, 17 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for priesthood 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'priesthood.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of priesthood was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near priesthood

Cite this Entry

“Priesthood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/priesthood. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

priesthood

noun
priest·​hood ˈprēst-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce priesthood (audio)
ˈprē-ˌstu̇d
1
: the office or dignity of a priest
2
: the whole group of priests

More from Merriam-Webster on priesthood

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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