pulpit
UK: ˈpʊlpɪt | US: ˈpʊlpɪt
n. a raised platform or lectern in a church or chapel from which the preacher delivers a sermon
n. (figuratively) a position of authority to express opinions publicly
pulpit = pulp<platform> + it<noun suffix>
- pulp<platform>: From Latin pulpitum ("platform, stage"), originally referring to a wooden structure in theaters.
- it<noun suffix>: A nominalizing suffix in Latin, later adopted into English.
Etymology Origin:
The word pulpit traces back to Latin pulpitum, which referred to a wooden stage or platform in ancient Roman theaters. Over time, its meaning narrowed in ecclesiastical contexts to denote the elevated stand from which clergy addressed congregations. The transition from theatrical to religious use reflects the symbolic "stage" for delivering sermons.
The priest stood at the pulpit to deliver his Sunday sermon.
She used her social media as a pulpit to advocate for climate change awareness.
The wooden pulpit was intricately carved with biblical scenes.
He stepped down from the pulpit after speaking for an hour.
The reformer turned the courtroom into a pulpit for justice.