VocabDictionary

chief priest

/tʃiːf priːst/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The principal or head priest in certain religious traditions, particularly in ancient Judaism or various polytheistic religions.

Example Sentences:
  • In ancient Jerusalem, the chief priest played a central role in presiding over temple rituals and sacrifices.
  • The historical texts describe how the chief priest entered the Holy of Holies once a year.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “chief priest”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English words 'chief' (from Old French 'chief', meaning 'head, leader', ultimately from Latin 'caput') and 'priest' (from Old English 'prēost', ultimately from Late Latin 'presbyter', meaning 'elder'). Historically used to denote the principal religious leader presiding over a sacrificial or ritual system, particularly prominent in ancient Judaism (the High Priest) and various pagan religions.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of the 'chief' (the boss) of all the 'priests' (religious leaders).

Frequently Asked Questions About “chief priest

1. What is the meaning of “chief priest” in English?

In English, chief priest (noun) is defined as: “The principal or head priest in certain religious traditions, particularly in ancient Judaism or various polytheistic religions.”.

2. How do you use “chief priest” in a sentence?

In ancient Jerusalem, the chief priest played a central role in presiding over temple rituals and sacrifices.

3. What are English synonyms of “chief priest”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “chief priest”?

Derived from the Middle English words 'chief' (from Old French 'chief', meaning 'head, leader', ultimately from Latin 'caput') and 'priest' (from Old English 'prēost', ultimately from Late Latin 'presbyter', meaning 'elder'). Historically used to denote the principal religious leader presiding over a sacrificial or ritual system, particularly prominent in ancient Judaism (the High Priest) and various pagan religions.