priesthood

noun

priest·​hood ˈprēst-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce priesthood (audio)
ˈprē-ˌstu̇d
1
: the office, dignity, or character of a priest
2
: the whole body of priests
3
: elite sense 1
the priesthood of the art world

Examples of priesthood in a Sentence

an ancient civilization that was ruled by a priesthood What is the influence of the priesthood in today's society?
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lives lived: Theodore E. McCarrick, a high-ranking cardinal who was accused of abuse and was stripped of his priesthood by Pope Francis, died at 94. Natasha Frost, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025 But for one La Jolla couple, the events and people in their upcoming novel are personal and combine secret priesthood, a family mystery, international romance and heartbreak. Ashley MacKin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Apr. 2025 The mainstream church teaches that only men are endowed with priesthood power. Lizz Schumer, People.com, 29 Sep. 2024 The mainstream church teaches that only men are endowed with priesthood power. Lizz Schumer, People.com, 29 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for priesthood

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of priesthood was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Priesthood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/priesthood. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

priesthood

noun
priest·​hood ˈprēst-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce priesthood (audio)
ˈprē-ˌstu̇d
1
: the office or dignity of a priest
2
: the whole group of priests

More from Merriam-Webster on priesthood

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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