Definition of Pontefical

Pontifical, a service-book of the Romish Church, containing prayers and rites for a performance of public worship by the Pope or bishop; also in the plural the name of the full dress of an officiating priest.

Pon*tif"ic*al (?), a. [L. pontificalis: cf. F. pontifical. See Pontiff.] 1. Of or pertaining to a pontiff, or high priest; as, pontifical authority; hence, belonging to the pope; papal.

2. Of or pertaining to the building of bridges. [R.]

Now had they brought the work by wondrous art
Pontifical, a ridge of pendent rock
Over the vexed abyss.

Milton.

Pon*tif"ic*al, n. [F.] 1. A book containing the offices, or formulas, used by a pontiff. South.

2. pl. The dress and ornaments of a pontiff. "Dressed in full pontificals." Sir W. Scott.

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