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pontífice

pontiff

noun pohn-TEE-fee-seh Rare
People & Society Religion

Origin: From Latin pontifex (bridge-builder, high priest), from pons (bridge) + facere (to make).

Also means

pope

Usage Note

Pontífice means a high priest, and in Catholic usage it specifically refers to the Pope — el Sumo Pontífice ('the Supreme Pontiff'). The Latin etymology (literally 'bridge-builder') reflects the ancient priestly role of maintaining sacred bridges. The adjective pontificio ('pontifical') derives from the same root, as does pontificar ('to pontificate,' both literally and in the sense of speaking pompously).

Examples

"El pontífice habló ante miles de fieles."

Natural Translation

The pontiff spoke before thousands of faithful.

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