1. Of or relating to the fetiales, Roman priests who conducted diplomatic and religious ceremonies, especially declarations of war and peace.
Usage: historical; relating to ancient Rome

1. A member of the college of fetiales in ancient Rome; a priest responsible for conducting formal diplomatic and religious rituals.
Usage: historical; usually used in plural form 'fetiales'

Examples

• The fetialis priests performed the sacred rites before Rome declared war on its enemies.
• According to Roman custom, a fetialis would recite the formal declaration of war.
• The fetiales maintained the religious protocols governing treaties and peace agreements.
• Only a qualified fetialis could conduct the ceremony that bound Rome to its diplomatic commitments.
• The college of fetiales served as both religious and diplomatic officials in the Roman state.