priestess

noun

priest·​ess ˈprē-stəs How to pronounce priestess (audio)
1
: a woman authorized to perform the sacred rites of a religion
2
: a woman regarded as a leader (as of a movement)

Examples of priestess 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.
Archaeologists excavating a massive tomb in Pompeii unearthed extremely rare, nearly life-size marble statues that shed new light on the power held by priestesses in the ancient city. Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 5 Apr. 2025 In her right hand, the female figure holds laurel leaves, which Roman priestesses and priests once used to purify spaces. Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 Apr. 2025 Fox is a Wiccan priestess, but Circle Sanctuary is inclusive of a range of pagan traditions, focusing on a spiritual connection with nature. Rose Conlon, NPR, 20 Dec. 2024 Fox is a Wiccan priestess, but Circle Sanctuary is inclusive of a range of pagan traditions, focusing on a spiritual connection with nature. Rose Conlon, NPR, 20 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for priestess

Word History

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of priestess was in 1654

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Cite this Entry

“Priestess.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/priestess. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

priestess

noun
priest·​ess ˈprē-stəs How to pronounce priestess (audio)
: a woman who is a priest

More from Merriam-Webster on priestess

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