sacerdotage

A priest performs sacerdotage in a grand temple.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Priesthood or priestly order: "sacerdotage" refers to the collective body of priests or the institution of the priesthood.
   • Priest-ridden state or society: A derogatory term for a society or government dominated or controlled by priests or clergy.

Usage Examples

• (The collective priesthood had great power.)
• (A state dominated by priests.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be under sacerdotage": to be under the control or influence of a priestly class.
  • The kingdom was under sacerdotage for centuries, with clerics managing both spiritual and temporal affairs. (The kingdom was ruled by priests.)

Variants and Related Words

• Sacerdotal (adj): relating to priests or the priesthood; priestly.
  • The sacerdotal robes were richly embroidered. (Priestly garments.)
• Sacerdocy (n): the office or function of a priest; the priesthood.
  • He entered the sacerdocy at age thirty. (He became a priest.)

Synonyms

• Priesthood: the office or body of priests.
• Clergy: the body of religious officials (often broader than "sacerdotage").
• Hierocracy: government by priests or religious leaders.

Related Idioms

• No common idioms directly use "sacerdotage," as it is a rare, formal term.

Phrasal Verbs

• No common phrasal verbs are formed with "sacerdotage."