priesthood

Pronunciation: /ˈpɹiːstˌhʊd/

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun the body of ordained religious practitioners

Etymology

From Middle English presthed, presthede, presthod, presthode, from Old English prēosthād (“priesthood”), equivalent to priest + -hood. Compare Dutch priesterheid (“priesthood”).

In classic literature

Semantic network

Broader (hypernyms)
profession
Narrower (hyponyms)
ministry, rabbinate, clergy

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