adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of priestly
before 1000; Middle English prestli, Old English prēostlic. See priest, -ly
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.
Dillon and his priestly companions are aware of the conflicts within the church and the diminished public respect for the priesthood, yet still they chose a life in service of the Lord.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 22, 2026
The text also sheds light on women's roles in Babylon, including priestly duties that were previously undocumented.
From Science Daily ● Nov. 11, 2025
When a sick boy gets worse under her priestly ministrations, Mama Efe’s trusted standing becomes even more precarious.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 6, 2023
This 3-week synod, which begins Wednesday, is putting them more or less on an equal playing field to debate agenda items including such hot-button issues as women, LGBTQ+ Catholics and priestly celibacy.
From Seattle Times ● Oct. 1, 2023
Immediately above it, hidden from visitors’ eyes, sat a priestly functionary, who provided the god’s voice.
From "1491" by Charles C. Mann
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
