priestcraft
|priest-craft|
/ˈpriːstkræft/
priest + craft (skill or trick)
Etymology
'priestcraft' originates from English, formed by combining the noun 'priest' and the noun 'craft'.
'priest' originates from Old English 'preost', ultimately from Latin 'presbyter' and Greek 'presbyteros' meaning 'elder'; 'craft' originates from Old English 'cræft' meaning 'strength, skill'. The compound developed in Early Modern English from phrases like 'priest's craft' into the single word 'priestcraft'.
Initially it could refer neutrally to the office or skill of priests; over time it acquired a negative sense meaning 'clerical trickery' or the exploitative use of religion.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the office, art, or skill of a priest; sacerdotal duties or abilities (often neutral, archaic).
In earlier centuries, much weight was given to the priestcraft involved in liturgical ceremonies.
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Noun 2
the use of religion by clergy for personal, political, or financial advantage; clerical artifice or hypocrisy (derogatory).
Critics denounced the campaign as little more than priestcraft designed to secure votes.
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Last updated: 2025/11/16 06:27