Definition of the word pontificate

In ancient Rome, the "pontifex maximus" was the highest religious official in the state religion. He was responsible for ensuring the goodwill of the gods and making offerings on their behalf. His authority could be compared to that of a modern legislative body in that he had the power to veto or approve laws passed by other officials. The term "pontifex" literally translates to "bridge builder," as these officials were believed to have the ability to create a bridge between humans and the divine through their offerings and prayers. This job required them to cross several of Rome's many bridges in the course of their duties, hence the term "pontified." By the Middle Ages, the church had adopted the term "pontiff" to describe high-ranking Catholic officials, though its meaning had become more closely associated with religious authority and less with bridge building. As time went on, the term became associated with popes specifically, especially during the papacy of Pope Innocent III in the 13th century. In English, "pontificate" was coined in the 16th century to describe the excessive or pompous exercise of authority, often in religious contexts. It ultimately derives from the Latin "pontificate" via the French "pontifier." Overall, the use of "pontificate" today has little to do with actual bridge building and much more to do with religious and political authority.