pontificate
UK: /pɒnˈtɪfɪkeɪt/ | US: /pɑːnˈtɪfɪkeɪt/
vi. to speak or behave in a pompous or dogmatic manner
n. the office or term of office of a pontiff (e.g., the Pope)
pontificate = pontif<bridge-builder, high priest> + icate<verb-forming suffix>
- pontif (from Latin pontifex, meaning "bridge-builder" or "high priest"; pons = bridge + facere = to make)
- icate (a verb-forming suffix derived from Latin -icāre, indicating action or process)
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin pontifex, originally referring to Roman priests who were symbolically "bridge-builders" between gods and humans. Over time, pontifex became associated with the Pope in Christianity. The verb pontificate evolved metaphorically to describe authoritative or pompous speech, mirroring the perceived demeanor of high religious officials.
The professor tended to pontificate rather than engage in dialogue.
During his pontificate, the Pope emphasized global unity.
She avoided colleagues who would pontificate on topics they barely understood.
His habit of pontificating made the meeting tedious.
The CEO’s speech was more a pontification than a practical strategy discussion.