Pontifical: meaning, definitions and examples
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pontifical
[pษnหtษชfษชk(ษ)l ]
Definitions
religious ceremony
Relating to the Pope or papal authority; characterized by a high-sounding ceremonial formality.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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pontifical |
Used to describe something related to the Pope or the Roman Catholic Church, often in a ceremonial or grand way. It can also mean being pompous or self-important in a negative sense.
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papal |
Used exclusively to describe something directly related to the Pope or his authority.
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pontificial |
This is an incorrect form and should not be used. |
Examples of usage
- The pontifical blessing was bestowed upon the crowd gathered in the square.
- The pontifical vestments were ornate and majestic.
arrogant behavior
Characterized by an arrogant sense of self-importance or superiority.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
pontifical |
Use 'pontifical' when referring to something related to the Pope or characterized by a pompous sense of authority. It is often used in formal or religious discussions.
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arrogant |
Use 'arrogant' to describe someone who has an inflated sense of their own importance and talent, often to an annoying degree. It has a negative connotation.
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haughty |
Use 'haughty' to describe someone who is disdainfully proud and looks down on others. It has a strong negative connotation and often implies a sense of superiority.
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pompous |
Use 'pompous' to describe someone who is self-important and overly formal, often to the point of being ridiculous. This word also has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- His pontifical attitude towards his coworkers alienated many of them.
- She dismissed his pontifical remarks as mere arrogance.
academic setting
Relating to or characteristic of a bishop; pompous or dogmatic in one's manner or opinions.
Synonyms
authoritative, dictatorial, dogmatic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
pontifical |
Used to describe something that is pompous or self-important, often in a way that is overly formal or ceremonial, similar to the manner of a high-ranking church official.
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dogmatic |
Refers to asserting opinions in an arrogant and unyielding manner, often without consideration for other viewpoints, usually in relation to beliefs or principles. This term has a negative connotation.
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authoritative |
Describes something or someone that is reliable, confident, and able to be trusted as being accurate or true, often in a leadership or expert role.
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dictatorial |
Describes a manner or behavior that is overly controlling, domineering, and oppressive, similar to that of a dictator. This term has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The professor's pontifical lectures often left his students feeling belittled.
- Her pontifical demeanor in committee meetings made collaboration difficult.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'pontifical' comes from Latin 'pontificalis', meaning 'of a priest' or 'of a pontiff', where 'pontifex' means 'bridge builder'.
- The term has been in use since the Middle Ages in connection with the authority of the pope in the Catholic Church.
Cultural Significance
- In the context of the Catholic Church, pontifical ceremonies include solemn services conducted by the pope or bishops.
- The style of attire worn during pontifical masses, especially the pope, is highly symbolic, featuring elements like the mitre and the crosier.
Historical Context
- The role of the pontiff has evolved over centuries, adapting to historical events like the Reformation and Vatican II.
- Pontifical authority was challenged during the Protestant Reformation, leading to significant religious and political changes in Europe.
Psychology
- The pontifical role often invokes feelings of reverence and authority among followers, reflecting the psychological impact of spiritual leadership.
- Studies show that the aura of authority associated with pontifical figures can influence group dynamics within religious contexts.
Media and Pop Culture
- Films and literature often portray pontifical figures as wise leaders faced with moral dilemmas, enhancing the mystique around their roles.
- The public's fascination with the pope often leads to extensive media coverage during papal visits, showcasing cultural influences.
Translations
Translations of the word "pontifical" in other languages:
๐ต๐น pontifical
๐ฎ๐ณ เคชเฅเคเคเคฟเคซเคฟเคเคฒ
๐ฉ๐ช pรคpstlich
๐ฎ๐ฉ pontifikal
๐บ๐ฆ ะฟะฐะฟััะบะธะน
๐ต๐ฑ papieski
๐ฏ๐ต ๆ็ใฎ
๐ซ๐ท pontifical
๐ช๐ธ pontificio
๐น๐ท papa ile ilgili
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ตํฉ์
๐ธ๐ฆ ุจุงุจูู
๐จ๐ฟ papeลพskรฝ
๐ธ๐ฐ pรกpeลพskรฝ
๐จ๐ณ ๆ็็
๐ธ๐ฎ papeลกki
๐ฎ๐ธ pรกfaglegur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฟะฐะฟะฐะปัา
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแก
๐ฆ๐ฟ papalฤฑq
๐ฒ๐ฝ pontificio