priestly

[ preest-lee ]

adjective

, priest·li·er, priest·li·est.

1. of or relating to a priest; sacerdotal:

   priestly vestments.

2. characteristic of or befitting a priest.

ˈpriestly

/ ˈpriːstlɪ /

adjective

1. of, relating to, characteristic of, or befitting a priest

Derived Forms

• ˈpriestliness, noun

Other Words From

• priestli·ness noun
• non·priestly adjective
• pseudo·priestly adjective
• un·priestly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of priestly¹

before 1000; Middle English prestli, Old English prēostlic. See priest, -ly

Example Sentences

He did not know at the time, he wrote, that “following these procedures was not effective, and that perpetrators were incapable of being treated in such a way that they could safely pursue priestly ministry.”

From Los Angeles Times

“This one’s special. Our nation’s leader is honoring our Pops, our father, and I don’t say father in a priestly way,” Verdugo said.

From Los Angeles Times

Cloaks and priestly robes parted to reveal swords and daggers.

From Literature

“Here, communication between man and God takes place,” said Lyngdoh, a descendant of the priestly clan which sanctified the Mawphlang forest.

From Seattle Times

In nature, among the priestly and royal, as a symbol of independence, pride and magic, purple is weighty in history and culture.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• doctrinal
• holy
• sacred
• sectarian
• theological