priestly

adjective

priest·​ly ˈprēst-lē How to pronounce priestly (audio)
Synonyms of priestlynext
1
: of or relating to a priest or the priesthood : sacerdotal
2
: characteristic of or befitting a priest
priestliness noun

Examples of priestly in a Sentence

He is a kind, priestly man. majestically robed in priestly garments
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The massive priestly blessing for Passover, which usually draws tens of thousands, will take place with just 50 worshippers, Rabinowitz said. ABC News, 29 Mar. 2026 Lopez’s thoughts turned to those who may have strayed from the faith, the priestly role in bringing them back and the importance of Christmas in perhaps sparking that return. Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Dec. 2025 Full priestly duties June through October, combined with driving up and down the mountain, had been a stretch. CBS News, 5 Dec. 2025 The names were common, but for good reason, as the Hasmonean priestly family was so revered. Literary Hub, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for priestly

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of priestly was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Priestly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/priestly. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

priestly

adjective
priest·​ly ˈprēst-lē How to pronounce priestly (audio)
priestlier; priestliest
1
: of or relating to a priest or the priesthood
2
: characteristic of or suitable for a priest
priestliness noun

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