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 of priest

• preacher
• cleric
• clergyman
• bishop
• minister
• deacon
• pastor
• reverend
• clerical

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 book stresses the importance of the sacraments and other orthodoxy, such as oral confession to a priest and the transubstantiation of Christ’s body and blood when taking communion. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 16 Sep. 2026

But back in 2010, the block was relatively quaint, and the lot held a two-story, 2,599-square-foot rectory for priests. — Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 15 Sep. 2026

The group then reconvened at the Glendale cemetery, where a priest said prayers over the casket, which was gently lowered into the ground as teary-eyed friends and family members watched. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 15 Sep. 2026

Those praying for Atkinson's canonization and sainthood have been patient, a page right out of the priest's own book. — Joe Holden, CBS News, 15 Sep. 2026

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

Rhymes for priest

• beast
• ceased
• creased
• east
• feast
• fleeced
• geest
• greased
• leased
• least
• pieced
• yeast

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"