1. a high priest in ancient Rome
Usage: historical
2. the Pope or a bishop in the Roman Catholic Church
Usage: formal; religious

Examples

• The pontifex maximus was the chief priest of ancient Rome.
• Julius Caesar held the position of pontifex maximus.
• The pontifex performed sacred rituals at the temple.
• In Catholic tradition, the Pope is considered the supreme pontifex.
• The local pontifex blessed the new church building.
• Ancient Roman pontifexes maintained the sacred calendar.