pontiff

noun

pon·​tiff ˈpän-təf How to pronounce pontiff (audio)
1
2
: bishop
specifically, often capitalized : pope sense 1

Examples of pontiff in a Sentence

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.
In a series of messages on social media, the pontiff alluded to his health battle over chronic lung issues. Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 6 Apr. 2025 When the smiling pontiff was wheeled in, those there cheered wildly. Antonia Mortensen, CNN Money, 6 Apr. 2025 The pontiff has not been able to offer his customary noontime prayers at St. Peter's Square since Feb. 9. Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 6 Apr. 2025 The pope demonstrated his trademark humor in this week’s visit, responding to a comment by Alfieri that the 88-year-old pontiff had the mentality of a 50- or 60-year-old. Colleen Barry and Trisha Thomas, Los Angeles Times, 29 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pontiff

Word History

Etymology

French pontif, from Latin pontific-, pontifex

First Known Use

1552, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of pontiff was in 1552

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pontiff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pontiff. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

pontiff

noun
pon·​tiff ˈpänt-əf How to pronounce pontiff (audio)
: bishop sense 1
especially, often capitalized : pope
pontifical
pän-ˈtif-i-kəl
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on pontiff

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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