pontificate
pon-tif-i-cate / pŏn-tĭf-ĭ-kĭt, pŏn-tĭf-ĭ-kāt
noun 1. (Roman Catholic Church) the office or term of office of the pope [Pope Francis] is 78 years old and knows that his will be a short pontificate. George Weigel, 1951 - verb 1. to speak or express opinions in a pompous or authoritative and unchallengeable manner I don't spend my time pontificating about high-concept things; I spend my time solving engineering and manufacturing problems. Elon Musk, 1971 – 2. to serve as or perform the duties of a pontiff Pope Pius XII said his first Mass before Mary's altar in this cathedral [Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore], and in 1939 he pontificated at a Mass of thanksgiving at the same altar. www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/dictionary/index.cfm?id=36256, accessed March 9, 2023