Pontificate (Noun)
Meaning
The government of the Roman Catholic Church.
Classification
Nouns denoting groupings of people or objects.
Examples
- The Pope's pontificate was marked by significant reforms and a renewed focus on social justice.
- During his pontificate, the bishop oversaw the construction of several new churches and the renovation of many others.
- The length of a Pope's pontificate can vary greatly, from just a few months to several decades.
- The Pope's pontificate was cut short when he died suddenly, leading to a surprise conclave to elect his successor.
- Historians often study the pontificate of a particular Pope to understand the major events and trends of the time.