'sacerdotal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sacerdotalis,' where 'sacer' meant 'sacred' and 'dotalis' related to 'gift or dowry.'

'sacerdotalis' transformed into the Old French word 'sacerdotal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sacerdotal.'

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to sacred gifts or duties,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'relating to priests or the priesthood.'