antipope

noun

an·ti·pope ˈan-ti-ˌpōp

: one elected or claiming to be pope in opposition to the pope canonically chosen

Examples of antipope in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The oldest item in the show is a 12th-century parchment papal bull, signed by the reigning pope, Anastasius IV; three future popes; one future antipope; and one future saint. —

Jennifer Schuessler, New York Times, 12 July 2018

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

Word History

Etymology

Middle English antepope, from Middle French antipape, from Medieval Latin antipapa, from anti- + papa pope

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of antipope was in the 15th century

See more words from the same century

Cite this Entry

Style

“Antipope.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antipope. Accessed 30 Nov. 2023.

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