popish

American  

[poh-pish] / ˈpoʊ pɪʃ /

adjective

Disparaging.

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of the Roman Catholic Church.

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popish British  

/ ˈpəʊpɪʃ /

adjective

1. derogatory belonging to or characteristic of Roman Catholicism

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Other Word Forms

• popishly adverb
• popishness noun

Etymology

Origin of popish

First recorded in 1520–30; pope + -ish ¹

Example Sentences

Catholic rites are no longer despised as "popish idolatry." and Protestants often visit Catholic churches "to see how the liturgy is to be performed."

From Time Magazine Archive

But councils and bishops are quick to recall Martin Luther's admonition to his followers in Wittenberg not to flee popish pressure but stand their ground.

From Time Magazine Archive

Advent, writes Mrs. Berger, is the time to begin to "stir up your plum puddings," which were sometimes regarded as "popish" puddings in Cromwell's 17th Century England.

From Time Magazine Archive

By the time President John Leverett took office in 1708, the college press had come under fire for printing a "popish" book, Thomas a Kempis' Imitation of Christ.

From Time Magazine Archive

That staunch Tory, Roger North, in his Examen, has referred the origin of the name of his party to their connexion with the Duke of York and his popish allies.

From Notes and Queries, Vol. IV, Number 102, October 11, 1851 A Medium of Inter-communication for Literary Men, Artists, Antiquaries, Genealogists, etc. by Various

Related Words

• pontiff