SG Heritage Dictionary

Pontificate [Noun] Webster's Dictionary 1828

1. The state or dignity of a high priest; particularly, the office or dignity of the pope.

2. He turned hermit in the view of being advanced to the pontificate

3. The reign of a pope.

4. Painting, sculpture and architecture may all recover themselves under the present pontificate

Pontificate [Noun] Webster's Dictionary 1913

1. The state or dignity of a high priest; specifically, the office of the pope.

2. The term of office of a pontiff.

Pontificate [Verb intransitive] Webster's Dictionary 1913

To perform the duty of a pontiff.