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Pontiff: meaning, definitions and examples

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pontiff

 

[ ˈpɒntɪf ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious leader

A pontiff is a term used to refer to a bishop, particularly the Pope in the Roman Catholic Church. The word specifically denotes the supreme pontiff, who has the highest ecclesiastical authority and is considered the spiritual leader of Catholics worldwide. The role of the pontiff includes not just religious duties but also significant influence in political and social matters. Throughout history, pontiffs have played pivotal roles in shaping religious doctrine and responding to contemporary issues.

Synonyms

bishop, pope, spiritual leader

Examples of usage

  • The pontiff addressed millions during the Easter mass.
  • Many pilgrims traveled to see the pontiff in Vatican City.
  • The pontiff discussed climate change in his recent encyclical.
  • She received a blessing from the pontiff during her visit.

Translations

Translations of the word "pontiff" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pontífice

🇮🇳 पोप

🇩🇪 Papst

🇮🇩 papa

🇺🇦 папа

🇵🇱 papież

🇯🇵 教皇

🇫🇷 pape

🇪🇸 papa

🇹🇷 papalık

🇰🇷 교황

🇸🇦 البابا

🇨🇿 papež

🇸🇰 pápež

🇨🇳 教皇

🇸🇮 papež

🇮🇸 páfi

🇰🇿 папа

🇬🇪 პაპა

🇦🇿 pap

🇲🇽 papa

Word origin

The term 'pontiff' originates from the Latin word 'pontifex', which means 'bridge-builder'. This etymology reflects the role of the pontiff as a mediator between God and humanity. Over time, 'pontifex' became associated specifically with the Roman Catholic Church's bishops and ultimately the Pope himself. In ancient Rome, the title of 'pontifex' was used for priests responsible for maintaining the sacred bridges and overseeing various religious duties. The significance of the title has evolved, but it retains the essence of connection and authority within the religious context. As the role of the pope developed, the term 'pontiff' became a widely accepted title, symbolizing not only spiritual leadership but also moral guidance and the overarching mission of the Catholic Church.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,014, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.