How Do You Spell POPISH?

Pronunciation: [pˈɒpɪʃ] (IPA)

The word "popish" is often used to describe things related to the Catholic Church or its practices. This word is spelled as [ˈpɑːpɪʃ] in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable features the "aa" sound, like in the word "father", followed by the short "i" sound in the second syllable. The final syllable features the "sh" sound, which is represented by the letter "s" followed by the letters "h". This spelling is unique to English and may be unfamiliar to those who speak other languages.

POPISH Meaning and Definition

1. The term "popish" is an adjective derived from the noun "Pope", referring to the supreme pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. The word often carries a derogatory connotation and is primarily used in a Protestant context, with historic roots in the religious division between the Catholic and Protestant churches.

   In its dictionary definition, "popish" describes something that pertains to or resembles Catholic practices, doctrines, or beliefs from the perspective of Protestant criticism. It implies a criticism or disapproval of Catholicism, suggesting the presence of perceived errors, excesses, or idolatrous practices within the faith.

   The adjective "popish" can be employed to critique specific Catholic rituals, ceremonies, or customs, such as the veneration of saints, the use of religious images or icons, or the practice of confession to a priest. It may also refer to the perceived encroachment of the Pope's authority in religious and secular matters, highlighting concerns about potential papal infallibility or authoritarianism.

   While the term "popish" may have been more commonly used in historical contexts marked by religious conflict and intolerance, its usage in modern times is less frequent and often considered outdated. It is crucial to note that the term can be seen as offensive or disrespectful by some, particularly those who identify as Catholic, as it may perpetuate stereotypes or misconceptions about the faith.

2. Of or relating to the Pope, or to the R. Cath. Ch. and its adherents, used offensively and in contempt.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for POPISH

• oopish
• lopish
• -opish
• 0opish
• pipish
• pkpish
• plpish
• pppish
• p0pish
• p9pish
• po-ish
• po0ish
• popush
• popjsh
• popksh
• poposh
• pop9sh
• pop8sh
• popiah
• pnpish

Etymology of POPISH

The word "popish" is an adjective derived from the noun "Pope", which refers to the head of the Roman Catholic Church. The etymology of "Pope" can be traced back to the Late Latin word "papa", meaning "father" or "Pope". This, in turn, originates from the Greek word "pappas", meaning "father". The word "popish" emerged in Middle English in the 14th century, referring to something related to, characteristic of, or advocating the Pope or Roman Catholicism. It was primarily used in a derogatory sense, particularly during the Reformation period in England, when there was significant religious tension between Protestants and Catholics.