Added 10 October 2026
pulpit
/ˈpʊlpɪt/ noun
Latin root: pulpitum Wiktionary
noun Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about pulpit at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
- A raised platform in a church, sometimes enclosed, where the minister or preacher stands when giving the sermon; also, the lectern on such a platform.
-
Activity associated with or usually performed from a church pulpit; preaching, sermons, religious teaching. The preaching profession, office, or role in general; the pastorate, the priesthood, the ministry. Preachers collectively; clergy; the priesthood. An individual or particular preaching position or role; a pastorate.
He seems like too timid a man to fill the pulpit at such a large church.
- Activity associated with or usually performed from a church pulpit; preaching, sermons, religious teaching.
Origin
From Middle English pulpit, from Old French pulpite and Latin pulpitum (“platform”). Doublet of pulpitum and polypus. Piecewise doublet of polypod.
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)