# priestly

/ˈpɹistɫi/ (US) · /pɹˈiːstli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/priestly
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

relating to a priest or the duties of a priest. It describes things that are used in religious ceremonies or belong to the church.

For teachers: relating to a priest or the duties and privileges of the priesthood. Often used to describe ceremonial objects, vestments, or the specific authority held by religious leaders.

## Examples

- The priestly vestments are kept in a special room.
- The cathedral's interior was decorated with intricate priestly symbols and gold leaf.
- Scholars have long debated the priestly class's influence on early legal codes, suggesting that many religious rituals were originally designed to maintain social order.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.