How Do You Spell PRIESTCRAFT?

Pronunciation: [pɹˈiːstkɹaft] (IPA)

The word "priestcraft" is commonly spelled with the letters p-r-i-e-s-t-c-r-a-f-t. The IPA phonetic transcription for the word is /priːstkrɑːft/. According to the IPA, the "p" sound is pronounced as a voiceless bilabial stop, the "r" sound is pronounced as an alveolar trill, the "i" sound is pronounced as a long vowel, the "e" sound is pronounced as a short vowel, the "s" sound is pronounced as a voiceless alveolar sibilant, the "t" sound is pronounced as a voiceless alveolar stop, and the "f" sound is pronounced as a voiceless labiodental fricative.

PRIESTCRAFT Meaning and Definition

1. Priestcraft refers to the practices or skills employed by priests or religious leaders, especially when they are deemed manipulative, deceitful, or opportunistic in nature. It is a term often used to criticize or condemn the use of religious authority for personal gain, the manipulation of religious doctrines for political or economic purposes, or the exploitation of the beliefs and fears of the faithful.

   Priestcraft is typically associated with actions that are considered dishonest, insincere, or insidious within religious settings. It can involve actions such as promoting false doctrines, claiming divine inspiration or knowledge for personal benefit, exerting undue control or influence over followers, and exploiting the faithful for material or social gain.

   The concept of priestcraft can be traced back to the Enlightenment era when critics sought to expose what they believed to be corruption within religious institutions. It is important to note, however, that the usage of the term can have a religious bias and can vary depending on the perspective of the accuser or the religious tradition being scrutinized.

   Overall, priestcraft denounces the abuse or misuse of religious authority and emphasizes the importance of genuine faith and ethical conduct in religious leadership. It serves as a reminder to remain vigilant against practices that may compromise the integrity and sincerity of religious teachings and exploit the vulnerability of believers.

2. The trickery and frauds practised by priests to obtain wealth, influence, or power.

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

Common Misspellings for PRIESTCRAFT

• oriestcraft
• lriestcraft
• -riestcraft
• 0riestcraft
• peiestcraft
• pdiestcraft
• pfiestcraft
• ptiestcraft
• p5iestcraft
• p4iestcraft
• pruestcraft
• prjestcraft
• prkestcraft
• proestcraft
• pr9estcraft
• pr8estcraft
• priwstcraft
• prisstcraft
• pridstcraft

Etymology of PRIESTCRAFT

The word "priestcraft" is composed of two parts: "priest" and "craft".

The term "priest" originated from the Old English word "preost", which itself derived from the Latin word "presbyter" meaning "elder" or "priest". The Latin term, in turn, came from the Greek word "presbyteros", referring to an elder or senior member of the church.

The word "craft" is derived from the Old English word "craeft", meaning "skill" or "craftsmanship". Over time, "craft" has come to refer to a particular skill or profession.

When combined, "priestcraft" refers to the skill or techniques used by priests in their religious practices or rituals. It can sometimes have a negative connotation, suggesting deception or manipulation in religious contexts.

Similar spelling words for PRIESTCRAFT

• priest-ridden,
• PRIESTER,
• priesthood,
• priestess,
• priestley,
• prehistory,
• priestly,
• priestlike,
• prostrate,
• prehistorical,
• prehistoric,
• priest-doctor,
• prostration.

Plural form of PRIESTCRAFT is PRIESTCRAFTS