Clergyman: meaning, definitions and examples
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clergyman
[ˈklɜːrdʒɪmən ]
Definition
religious leader
A clergyman is a male religious leader, typically ordained for a specific religious tradition. They are responsible for leading religious services, providing spiritual guidance, and serving as a moral authority within their community.
Synonyms
minister, pastor, priest, reverend.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| clergyman |
This term is used to refer to a male member of the clergy in general. It is often used to describe someone who holds a religious office, but without specifying their exact role or denomination.
|
| minister |
A minister is generally a leader within a Protestant denomination. This term is used in both formal and informal contexts.
|
| priest |
A priest is a religious leader within the Catholic, Orthodox, or Anglican churches. This term is used in both everyday and formal settings to refer to someone who conducts religious services and administers sacraments.
|
| pastor |
This term is commonly used to refer to the leader of a Christian church, especially in Protestant traditions. It often implies a more personal, shepherd-like relationship with the congregation.
|
| reverend |
This is a formal title used before the name of a member of the clergy, often in Protestant denominations. It is mostly used in written or formal spoken contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- He was ordained as a clergyman in the Anglican Church.
- The clergyman delivered a powerful sermon on forgiveness.
- The clergyman visited the sick in the hospital.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from Middle English 'cleargyman', which referred to a person educated in religious matters.
- It evolved from the Old French 'clergie', emphasizing a person's status among the educated who could read and write.
- Earlier forms in Latin included 'clericus', indicating an individual associated with the clergy, an essential part of the church organization.
Historical Significance
- Clergymen played crucial roles in the establishment of social order in medieval Europe, often acting as advisors to kings.
- During the Reformation in the 16th century, clergymen became prominent figures advocating for changes in church practices and beliefs.
- In many cultures, clergymen have been key in movements for social justice, including the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S., where figures like Martin Luther King Jr. emerged.
Cultural Representation
- Clergymen often appear in literature and film as figures of wisdom or moral guidance, influencing characters and plotlines.
- In popular media, there’s sometimes a comedic stereotype of clergymen, reflecting society's ambivalence towards authority figures.
- Cultural practices surrounding weddings, funerals, and holidays often include the presence of clergymen, signifying their integral role in community life.
Modern Roles
- Today, clergymen can belong to various religious organizations, from traditional to contemporary, adapting their roles to meet current societal needs.
- Many clergymen today emphasize social service and community development, extending their influence beyond religious activities.
- The role has also expanded into areas like counseling, mental health, and advocacy for marginalized communities.
Psychology
- Studies show that clergymen can have significant positive impacts on mental health, acting as support figures in times of crisis.
- Clergy often engage in community-building activities, promoting a sense of belonging, which is vital for mental well-being.
- Research indicates that religious practices led or supported by clergymen may enhance resilience in individuals facing hardships.
Translations
Translations of the word "clergyman" in other languages:
🇵🇹 clérigo
🇮🇳 पादरी
🇩🇪 Geistlicher
🇮🇩 pendeta
🇺🇦 священнослужитель
🇵🇱 duchowny
🇯🇵 聖職者
🇫🇷 ecclésiastique
🇪🇸 clérigo
🇹🇷 din adamı
🇰🇷 성직자
🇸🇦 رجل دين
🇨🇿 duchovní
🇸🇰 duchovný
🇨🇳 神职人员
🇸🇮 duhovnik
🇮🇸 klerkur
🇰🇿 дін қызметкері
🇬🇪 სასულიერო პირი
🇦🇿 ruhani
🇲🇽 clérigo