priestess

noun

priest·​ess ˈprē-stəs How to pronounce priestess (audio)
Synonyms of priestessnext
1
: a woman authorized to perform the sacred rites of a religion
2
: a woman regarded as a leader (as of a movement)

Examples of priestess in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Nigerian-British actress Mosaku is recognized in the supporting actress category for her role as powerful Hoodoo priestess Annie in Ryan Coogler’s vampire horror, which scored the most Oscar nominations ever. Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 22 Jan. 2026 In it, Swift evokes the titular Trojan priestess, who was tragically given the gift of prophecy and yet no one believes her. Emlyn Travis, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Jan. 2026 Many come here connecting to these energies, this sacred land where great teachers, such as Mary Magdalene, Joseph of Arimathea, King Arthur Pendragon, Guinevere, Merlin, many priestesses, many priests, many Druids and many pagans, have all been drawn to the energies of this land. Adam Erace, Travel + Leisure, 1 Jan. 2026 The story begins in 1915 with the death of Julia Brown, who was a voodoo priestess in her town of Finner, which no longer exists today. Emilee Coblentz, Outside, 16 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for priestess

Word History

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of priestess was in 1654

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Cite this Entry

“Priestess.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/priestess. Accessed 17 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

priestess

noun
priest·​ess ˈprē-stəs How to pronounce priestess (audio)
: a woman who is a priest

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