Pontiffs
/ˈpɒn.tɪfs/noun
High priests in the ancient Roman religion, often associated with the authority to perform sacred rites.
Did you know?The title 'Pontifex Maximus' was originally used for a high priest in ancient Rome, symbolizing a bridge between the divine and the earthly, a role steeped in political power.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*pont-
“to build or create a bridge.”
Latin
Latin
pontifex
“bridge-maker, a term for a priest who builds bridges between the gods and men.”
Classical Latin
Latin
pontifex
“chief priest, referring to those in charge of religious rituals.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
pontificem
“the office of the high priest, emphasizing authority and sacred duties.”
Old French
Old French
pontife
“a title for a high religious leader, borrowed from Latin.”
Middle English
Middle English
pontif
“a bishop or high priest, reflecting the church's growing influence.”
Modern English
English
pontiffs
“referring to high-ranking priests, especially in the context of the Catholic Church.”