Priestlier: meaning, definitions and examples

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priestlier

 

[ ˈpriːstliər ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

clerical role

Priestlier refers to qualities or characteristics that are associated with a priest, often implying an air of sanctity or divine authority. It can be used to describe someone who embodies or exudes priest-like traits, such as solemnity, moral fortitude, or a sense of responsibility towards a community's spiritual well-being. This term is more commonly used in a metaphorical sense than as a direct characterization of someone in the clergy.

Synonyms

divine, holy, sacred, spiritual

Examples of usage

  • His priestlier demeanor calmed the congregation.
  • She spoke with a priestlier authority that inspired trust.
  • The character's priestlier attributes made him a natural leader.
  • In her priestlier moments, she offered guidance to the lost.

Translations

Translations of the word "priestlier" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sacerdotal

🇮🇳 पादरी

🇩🇪 priesterlich

🇮🇩 imam

🇺🇦 священичий

🇵🇱 kapłański

🇯🇵 司祭的な

🇫🇷 priestlien

🇪🇸 sacerdotal

🇹🇷 rahiplik

🇰🇷 사제의

🇸🇦 كهنوتي

🇨🇿 kněžský

🇸🇰 kňazský

🇨🇳 祭司的

🇸🇮 duhovniški

🇮🇸 prestdómur

🇰🇿 священничий

🇬🇪 მღვდელმსახურების

🇦🇿 kilsə

🇲🇽 sacerdotal

Etymology

The term 'priestlier' is derived from the word 'priest', which has its origins in the Old French term 'prest', itself derived from the Latin 'presbyter', meaning 'elder' or 'one who is set apart'. The transition from 'presbyter' to 'priest' integrated notions of religious leadership and authority within Christian contexts. The suffix '-lier' signifies a comparative form, suggesting an increased degree of priestly characteristics. Historically, the role of priests has evolved, encompassing a range of responsibilities from leading rituals to providing moral guidance, which has shaped the cultural understanding of priestliness over centuries.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,863, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.