as in to rant
disapproving
to speak or express your opinion about something in a way that shows that you think you are always right
We had to listen to her pontificate about the best way to raise children.
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of pontificate
During Pope Francis’ pontificate, the Vatican’s engagement with the world of sport has ramped up significantly.
—
George Ramsay, CNN, 20 Nov. 2024
Trump reportedly pontificated about striking fentanyl labs inside Mexico during his first term.
—Daniel Depetris, Chicago Tribune, 4 Mar. 2025
At the time, Werfel adhered to bohemian ways, pontificating in cafés and shouting slogans at leftist demonstrations.
—Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 3 Feb. 2025
The writer, so able to pontificate at length about ideas, struggles to untangle his feelings for both women.
—Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for pontificate
George Ramsay, CNN, 20 Nov. 2024
Trump reportedly pontificated about striking fentanyl labs inside Mexico during his first term.
—Daniel Depetris, Chicago Tribune, 4 Mar. 2025
At the time, Werfel adhered to bohemian ways, pontificating in cafés and shouting slogans at leftist demonstrations.
—Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 3 Feb. 2025
The writer, so able to pontificate at length about ideas, struggles to untangle his feelings for both women.
—Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for pontificate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pontificate
Verb
-
That venue decision takes away the D.C. district court’s jurisdiction where Judge James E. Boasberg has been ranting about Trump.—
Paul Bedard,
The Washington Examiner,
12 Apr. 2025
-
Zegler’s comments on Snow White didn’t help, and neither did her engagement with trolls ranting about a Latina in the title role.—
Anthony D'Alessandro,
Deadline,
31 Mar. 2025
Verb
-
Reviewers rave about the Court backpack because there’s space for your laptop, AirPods, umbrella, water bottle, and more.—
Isis Briones,
Travel + Leisure,
19 Apr. 2025
-
In a full review of the product, our writer raves about the results.—
Deanna Pai,
Glamour,
17 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Pontificate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pontificate. Accessed 2 May. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share