Holy See

noun

: the see of the pope

Examples of Holy See in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Holy See has historically played a distinctive backchannel role in easing tensions between the two adversaries. — Rick Jervis, USA Today, 13 May 2026 During the downpour, priests administered Communion under yellow and white umbrellas, the colors of the Holy See. — Jamey Keaten, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026 The harshness of the response suggested that after nearly five decades of trying to negotiate with the SSPX, the Holy See has had enough. — ABC News, 2 July 2026 The mayor himself will arrive this morning ahead of his afternoon one-on-one with Leo, the first American — and Chicago-born — pope, whose advocacy on immigrant rights and historic apology on Monday for the Holy See’s role in legitimizing slavery will be top of the list for Johnson to discuss. — Alice Yin, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for Holy See

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Holy See was in the 15th century

Rhymes for Holy See

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Browse Nearby Words

Holy Scriptures
Holy See
holy smoke
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Cite this Entry

“Holy See.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Holy%20See. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on Holy See

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Holy See

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