pontific

American

[pon-tif-ik] / pɒnˈtɪf ɪk /

adjective

Archaic.

pontifical.

Etymology

Origin of pontific

First recorded in 1635–45; pontiff + -ic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

With pontific gesture but light-hearted approach, he used blackboard drawings to discuss philosophy, referred to the Virgin Mary as "Our Lady of Television," earned high ratings even opposite Lucy and You Bet Your Life.

From Time Magazine Archive

If the word pontiff is properly spelled with two Effs, its eight derivatives are also exceptions to this rule; for they are severally spelled with one; as, pontific, pontifical, pontificate, &c.

From The Grammar of English Grammars by Brown, Goold

If the teacher assumes the manner pontific and speaks ex cathedra, and has the air of one who says the ultimate word, he will smother every question.

From Sunday-School Success A Book of Practical Methods for Sunday-School Teachers and Officers by Wells, Amos R.

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023