pontife — meaning in English

English meaning

• pontiff noun The Pope, as head of the Roman Catholic Church.
• pundit noun A person regarded as an expert who offers opinions or commentary, especially in the media.

Senses

pontife is used for these senses in English:

• pundit A learned person in India; someone with knowledge of Sanskrit, philosophy, religion and law; a Hindu scholar. [from 17th c.]

pontiff — full definition

1. noun The Pope, as head of the Roman Catholic Church.
2. noun More broadly, the chief leader or highest priest of any religion.

pundit — full definition

1. noun A person regarded as an expert who offers opinions or commentary, especially in the media.
2. noun A learned Hindu scholar, especially one versed in Sanskrit, religion, or law.

Related French words