priest

noun

ˈprēst 

plural priests

: someone who is authorized to perform the sacred rites of a religion especially as a mediatory agent between humans and God

specifically : an Anglican, Eastern Orthodox, or Roman Catholic clergyperson ranking below a bishop and above a deacon

Synonyms

• clergyperson
• cleric
• clerical
• clerk
• deacon
• divine
• dominie
• ecclesiastic
• minister
• preacher
• reverend

Examples of priest in a Sentence

He was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest.

searched for a priest who could perform an exorcism

Recent Examples on the Web

The case involves the death of an 83-year-old priest, a computer hacking trail that leads back to local police and the Indian government’s use of the controversial Pegasus spyware. —NPR, 3 June 2024

In 2021, Bettini founded the Central Valley chapter of the Troops of Saint George, a Catholic nonprofit that offers fraternity for priests, men and young men, according to its description. —Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2024

In August 1791, some 200 slaves gathered at night in Bois-Caiman in northern Haiti for a Vodou ceremony organized by Dutty Boukman, a renowned enslaved leader and Vodou priest. —Dánica Coto, The Christian Science Monitor, 10 May 2024

Or more immediately, full accountability for priests, pastors and deacons to create the most welcoming, spiritually nourishing parish experience for all? —Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 4 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English preist, from Old English prēost, ultimately from Late Latin presbyter — more at presbyter

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing priest

• high priest
• priest-ridden
• worker-priest

Kids Definition

priest

noun

ˈprēst 

: a person who has the authority to lead or perform religious ceremonies

Etymology

Old English prēost "priest," derived from Latin presbyter "priest, elder," from Greek presbyteros, comparative form of presbys "old man, elder"