Definition

Noun: 1. A chief priest, especially in a non-Christian religion: The leading priest or religious official in a temple or cult, often responsible for major ceremonies and rituals. 2. A leading authority or chief advocate of a particular movement, doctrine, or field: A person who is recognized as the foremost expert or the most influential proponent of a specific idea, style, or activity.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Religious Leader):

  • In ancient Egypt, the high priest of Amun held immense political power.
  • The ceremony was conducted by the high priest of the temple.

• Noun (Leading Authority):

  • He is widely regarded as the high priest of modern architecture.
  • The critic was considered the high priest of literary theory for a generation.

Advanced Usage

• "High priestess": The feminine form, used for a woman who is a chief priestess or a leading authority in a field.
  • She was the high priestess of the temple of Athena.
  • As the high priestess of fashion, her opinions shaped the entire industry.

Variants and Related Words

• Hierophant (n): A person, especially a priest, who interprets sacred mysteries or esoteric principles. (A more formal or literary synonym, especially for the second meaning).
• Archpriest (n): A chief priest. (Often used in Christian contexts).

Synonyms

• Pontiff: Often used for a high priest, especially the Pope.
• Chief priest: A direct descriptive synonym.
• Guru: An influential teacher or expert (for the second meaning).
• Doyen/doyenne: The most respected or prominent person in a particular field.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• The high priest of [something]: A common journalistic or descriptive phrase used to label someone as the foremost authority in a domain.
  • He was often called the high priest of Silicon Valley innovation.

Noun

1. a senior clergyman and dignitary
2. a preeminent authority or major proponent of a movement or doctrine
   • he's the high priest of contemporary jazz