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Clergy: meaning, definitions and examples

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clergy

 

[ ˈkləːdʒi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious leaders

The clergy refers to the formal religious leaders within a particular religion. They are typically ordained ministers, priests, or other religious officials who are responsible for leading worship services, performing religious ceremonies, and providing spiritual guidance to their followers.

Synonyms

ministry, pastorate, priesthood.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clergy

This entry should be removed because it is a repetition.
priesthood

Refers to the state or condition of being a priest, often highlighting a sense of vocation and commitment. It can imply a lifelong dedication, particularly within Christian traditions.

  • He has felt a calling to the priesthood since he was a child.
  • The priesthood requires extensive study and a deep personal commitment.
ministry

Refers to the professional work or duties carried out by ordained religious leaders. It can also refer to the organization they operate under or the services they provide.

  • Her ministry focuses on providing support to homeless youths.
  • After five years of theological training, he is ready to enter the ministry.
pastorate

Specifically refers to the office or tenure of a pastor. Often used when talking about the administration or leadership specific to a pastor’s role within a congregation.

  • During his pastorate, the church saw significant growth.
  • She was well-loved by the congregation during her pastorate.

Examples of usage

  • The clergy at the church were very welcoming to new members.
  • The clergy gathered for a special prayer service.
  • The clergy played an important role in organizing community events.
  • The clergy provided counseling and support to parishioners in need.
  • The clergy were respected members of the community.

Translations

Translations of the word "clergy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 clero

🇮🇳 पादरी वर्ग

🇩🇪 Klerus

🇮🇩 klerus

🇺🇦 духовенство

🇵🇱 duchowieństwo

🇯🇵 聖職者

🇫🇷 clergé

🇪🇸 clero

🇹🇷 ruhban sınıfı

🇰🇷 성직자

🇸🇦 رجال الدين

🇨🇿 duchovenstvo

🇸🇰 duchovenstvo

🇨🇳 神职人员

🇸🇮 duhovščina

🇮🇸 klerkar

🇰🇿 діни қызметкерлер

🇬🇪 სასულიერო პირები

🇦🇿 ruhban sinfi

🇲🇽 clero

Etymology

The word 'clergy' originated from the Old French word 'clergie', which came from the Late Latin word 'clericatus', meaning 'clerical status' or 'learning'. The clergy have played a significant role in various religions throughout history, providing spiritual leadership and guidance to their communities.

See also: clerk.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,140 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.