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Priestess: meaning, definitions and examples

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priestess

 

[ ˈpriːstΙ™s ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious figure

A priestess is a female priest, especially in polytheistic religions, who serves a particular deity or spiritual practice. She often performs rituals, sacrifices, and duties in temples or sacred spaces. Priestesses can be seen as mediators between the divine and human realms.

Synonyms

clergyperson, minister, spiritual leader

Examples of usage

  • The priestess led the ceremony with great reverence.
  • Many ancient cultures honored the priestess as a key spiritual figure.
  • The priestess consulted the oracle for guidance on the community's future.

Word origin

The term 'priestess' comes from the Old French word 'prestresse,' which itself derived from the Latin word 'sacerdos,' meaning 'priest.' This Latin word was used to describe someone who had the authority to perform sacred rites and rituals in various religious traditions. Historically, priestesses played crucial roles in ancient societies, such as those in Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where they were often associated with specific deities such as Athena, Isis, and Vesta. They could hold significant social and political power as conduits of divine will. The decline of priestesses in many regions coincided with the rise of patriarchal structures within organized religions, yet their influence persisted in various forms, including modern spiritual practices.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,402, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.