a clergyman in Christian churches who has the authority to perform or administer various religious rites; one of the Holy Orders
"The priest led the congregation through the communion service, administering the sacrament as ordained by his ordination into the Holy Orders."
a person who performs religious duties and ceremonies in a non-Christian religion
"The priest led the traditional ceremony to honor the ancestors before the community gathered for the feast."
a religious clergyman (clergywoman, clergyperson) who is trained to perform services or sacrifices at a church or temple
"The priest led the congregation in prayer and performed the sacred sacrifice at the temple."
In plain English: A priest is a religious leader who performs ceremonies and leads prayers for people of faith.
"The priest led the wedding ceremony at the local church."
Usage: A priest specifically leads Christian worship and performs sacraments in churches. Do not confuse this role with an imam, rabbi, or minister from other faith traditions.
To ordain as a priest.
"The bishop will now proceed to ordain him as a priest in this solemn ceremony."
A surname.
"The famous actor Priest appeared in several hit movies during the nineties."
The word "priest" comes from the Old English prēost, which was borrowed from Late Latin presbyter. This Latin term originally meant "elder," derived from Ancient Greek presbúteros for an older or senior person.