Clergywoman: meaning, definitions and examples
⛪
clergywoman
[ ˈklɜr.dʒi.wʊm.ən ]
religious leader
A clergywoman is a female member of the clergy, typically associated with a religious organization. She may perform various religious duties such as leading services, conducting ceremonies, and providing spiritual guidance to the congregation. The term is often used in contexts where there is an emphasis on gender equality within religious leadership. This role can be found in various denominations, including Christianity, Judaism, and other faiths. The clergywoman often engages with community outreach and social justice initiatives as part of her ministry.
Synonyms
female clergy, spiritual leader, woman of faith.
Examples of usage
- The clergywoman delivered a powerful sermon last Sunday.
- Many clergywomen are advocating for gender equality in their churches.
- The new clergywoman has a strong commitment to community service.
Translations
Translations of the word "clergywoman" in other languages:
🇵🇹 clériga
🇮🇳 पादरी महिला
🇩🇪 Pfarrerin
🇮🇩 wanita pendeta
🇺🇦 священниця
🇵🇱 kapłanka
🇯🇵 女性聖職者
🇫🇷 femme clergé
🇪🇸 mujer clérigo
🇹🇷 rahibe kadın
🇰🇷 여성 성직자
🇸🇦 امرأة كهنوت
🇨🇿 kněžka
🇸🇰 kňazka
🇨🇳 女神职人员
🇸🇮 duhovnica
🇮🇸 kvenna prestur
🇰🇿 әйел дін қызметкері
🇬🇪 ქალბატონი მღვდელი
🇦🇿 kəndir qadın
🇲🇽 mujer clérigo
Etymology
The term 'clergywoman' combines two elements: 'clergy' and 'woman.' The word 'clergy' derives from the Old French 'clergie,' which itself originates from the Latin 'clericalis' referring to 'clerical' or 'of the clergy.' This Latin term goes back to the Greek 'klērikos,' meaning 'of the lot' or 'of inheritance,' which was associated with the idea of clergy as a divinely ordained office. The usage of 'woman' in this context highlights the gender aspect of clergy members. Although women have been part of religious practices for centuries, their inclusion in formal religious leadership has been a more recent development. The first instances of women being acknowledged as clergy in many denominations arose in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to a gradual acceptance of women in various roles traditionally held by men, ultimately resulting in the establishment of the term 'clergywoman.' Today, clergywomen serve across different religions and play vital roles in advocating for equality and representation within their respective faith communities.