pontificate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The carrying of the cross was performed by John Paul II during the first part of his long pontificate, which lasted from 1978 to 2005, and then by Benedict XVI on a more limited basis.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

The 70-year-old pope, born as Robert Prevost in Chicago and known for most of his life as “Bob,” has had a quiet start to his pontificate.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

Pope Leo XIV held the first Christmas mass of his pontificate on Wednesday, greeting thousands of faithful in St Peter's Square before the service in an usually informal style.

From Barron's • Dec. 24, 2025

A single, white rose was pictured lying on the stone tomb that bears the name he was known by during his pontificate, below a crucifix illuminated by a single spotlight.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2025

They pontificate upon the fluffiness of the popcorn, the sweetness of the chocolate.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern