pontifical

adjective/pɑnˈtɪfɪkəl/

Frequency rank: #17,472 most common English word

Meaning

Relating to a pope or bishop; alternatively, speaking in a pompously dogmatic or self-important manner.

Illustration for the English word “pontifical”

Example sentence

The bishop delivered his message in pontifical tones, leaving no room for debate.

Synonyms & related words

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