A priestess is a woman who serves a god or goddess in religious ceremonies and rituals. In ancient civilizations like Greece, Rome, and Egypt, priestesses held important positions in temples, performing sacred duties like offering prayers, making sacrifices, and interpreting signs from the gods. The famous Oracle of Delphi, where ancient Greeks sought prophecies about the future, was delivered by a priestess of Apollo.

Different cultures had different roles for their priestesses. In ancient Rome, the Vestal Virgins were priestesses who tended the sacred flame of Vesta, goddess of the hearth. In some religions, priestesses performed healing ceremonies or blessed marriages and harvests. Many priestesses studied for years to learn the complex rituals and prayers their positions required.

While some modern religions still have priestesses, you'll encounter the word most often in history books, mythology, and fantasy stories. The male equivalent is priest. When you read about a priestess in an ancient temple, picture someone who devoted her life to serving her deity, someone her community respected and often came to for spiritual guidance and blessings.