Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
* Priest: A person authorized to perform religious rites and ceremonies, especially as an intermediary between the people and a deity.
* -ess: A suffix often used to indicate a feminine form of a noun.
Therefore, a priestess is essentially a female priest who fulfills the role of a religious leader.
Key characteristics of a priestess might include:
* Spiritual authority: She is recognized as having a special connection to the divine.
* Ritual knowledge: She is proficient in performing religious rituals and ceremonies.
* Guidance and interpretation: She might interpret omens, provide spiritual guidance, and offer advice to the community.
* Representation of the deity: She may be seen as a physical embodiment of the deity she serves.
While the role of a priestess has varied across cultures and time periods, the core concept of a female spiritual leader remains consistent.