pope

noun

ˈpōp How to pronounce pope (audio)
Synonyms of popenext
1
often Pope : a prelate who as bishop of Rome is the head of the Roman Catholic Church
2
: one that resembles a pope (as in authority)
3
a
: the Eastern Orthodox or Coptic patriarch of Alexandria
b
: a priest of an Eastern church

Examples of pope in a Sentence

The cardinals elected a new pope.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The pope expressed hope that cooperation between the two sides would allow food and medical aid to reach the city and permit the voluntary and safe evacuation of civilians. — Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2026 The results, along with details of the tumor's molecular and genetic makeup, will help doctors determine whether the pope needs additional treatment. — Arkansas Online, 18 Oct. 2026 The news of the cancer diagnosis on Tuesday shocked people inside the Vatican and across the Catholic world, given the pope was known for being in good physical shape. — Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 18 Oct. 2026 The pope paused for a moment and waved to the crowd before retreating into his apartment in the Apostolic Palace. — Colleen Barry, Chicago Tribune, 18 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pope

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English pāpa, from Late Latin papa, from Greek pappas, papas, title of bishops, literally, papa

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pope was before the 12th century

Rhymes for pope

See All Rhymes for pope

Browse Nearby Words

popdock
pope
Pope
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Cite this Entry

“Pope.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pope. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

pope

noun
ˈpōp How to pronounce pope (audio)
often capitalized
: the head of the Roman Catholic Church

Biographical Definition

Pope 1 of 2

biographical name (1)

ˈpōp How to pronounce Pope (audio)
Alexander 1688–1744 English poet
Popian
ˈpō-pē-ən How to pronounce Pope (audio)
adjective
or less commonly Popean

Pope

2 of 2

biographical name (2)

John 1822–1892 American general

More from Merriam-Webster on pope

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for pope

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pope

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