German word

Priester

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈpʁiːstɐ/

Meaning

  • masculine nounpriest

Example

Der Priester segnet das Brautpaar.

The priest blesses the bride and groom.

Illustration for Priester (priest)

More examples

Ich habe einen Priester um Rat gefragt.

I asked a priest for advice.

Core concept

A robed member of the clergy who conducts services and performs religious ceremonies for a congregation.

Common phrases

  • einen Priester um Rat fragen

    ask a priest for advice

  • den Priester ansprechen

    address a priest

  • einen Priester treffen

    meet a priest

Similar words

Priesterin: A woman serving as a member of the clergy in a religious community.
Pfarrer: A pastor who leads a parish and cares for its congregation.
Seelsorger: A member of a religious community who provides spiritual care and guidance.

Definition in German

Priester ist eine klerikale Person, vor allem in der katholischen Kirche, die liturgische Handlungen vollzieht und Sakramente spendet.

Word origin

The German noun comes through Old High German priester from Latin presbyter, which derives from Greek presbyteros, an elder.

Usage tips

  • Priester is a masculine noun with the article der, while the feminine form is die Priesterin; the plural remains Priester.

Other meanings

  • fathernoun
  • clergymannoun

Opposites

  • Laielaypersonnoun
  • Weltlichersecular personnoun

Related words

  • Priesteramtpriesthoodnoun
  • priesterlichpriestlyadjective

Word lists with this word