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Deacon: meaning, definitions and examples

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deacon

 

[ ˈdiːkən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious title

A deacon is an ordained member of the Christian clergy who serves in a supportive role to a priest or minister. They often assist in liturgical duties, perform outreach, and can officiate certain ceremonies such as baptisms.

Synonyms

clergyman, minister, spiritual leader

Examples of usage

  • The deacon baptized the newborn during the church service.
  • She was appointed as a deacon to help with community services.
  • The deacon delivered the message of hope to the congregation.
Context #2 | Noun

historical role

Historically, a deacon was a title used in various roles within the church, often tasked with caring for the poor and managing church resources. This role evolved over time, becoming more structured within different denominations.

Synonyms

aide, assistant, helper

Examples of usage

  • In the early church, deacons were responsible for the distribution of food to the needy.
  • The first deacons were chosen to address complaints regarding food distribution.
  • Traditionally, deacons played a significant role in maintaining church order.

Translations

Translations of the word "deacon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diácono

🇮🇳 डिकन

🇩🇪 Diakon

🇮🇩 diakon

🇺🇦 диякон

🇵🇱 diakon

🇯🇵 執事 (しじ)

🇫🇷 diacre

🇪🇸 diácono

🇹🇷 diakon

🇰🇷 집사

🇸🇦 شمّاس

🇨🇿 diakon

🇸🇰 diakon

🇨🇳 执事 (zhí shì)

🇸🇮 diakon

🇮🇸 díakon

🇰🇿 диякон

🇬🇪 დიაკვანი

🇦🇿 diakon

🇲🇽 diácono

Etymology

The term 'deacon' originates from the Greek word 'diakonos', which means 'servant' or 'minister'. In the early Christian church, deacons were appointed to assist the apostles in their ministry, particularly in the distribution of food and aid to the less fortunate. As Christianity spread and formalized its structures, the role of the deacon became more defined, particularly within the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and many Protestant traditions. By the second century, deacons were recognized as a formal order of ministry, and their roles have evolved to include various responsibilities, depending on the denomination. Today, the specific duties and functions of deacons vary widely but generally include pastoral care, liturgical roles, and community service.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,794, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.