clergy

noun

cler·​gy ˈklər-jē 

plural clergies

1

: a group ordained to perform pastoral or sacerdotal functions in a Christian church

Members of the clergy have been invited to participate in an interfaith service.

2

: the official or sacerdotal class of a non-Christian religion

Buddhist clergy

Synonyms

• church
• cloth
• first estate
• ministry
• spirituality
• spiritualty

Examples of clergy in a Sentence

Local clergy have been invited to participate in an interfaith service.

a member of the clergy

Recent Examples on the Web

As part of this rebirth, fashion designer and artist Jean-Charles de Castelbajac was asked to create new vestments, or special service garments, for the cathedral’s clergy. —Aj Willingham, CNN, 14 Dec. 2024

The clergy mentioned by the victims Friday included Stephen Keistle, John T. McCracken, George Francis and Donald Brodersen. —Jakob Rodgers, The Mercury News, 13 Dec. 2024

From child abuse scandals to financial fraud and the deterioration of clergy perception, there is an alarming erosion of brand trust among the public. —Dr. Marcus Collins, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024

Although religious order clergy serve at the pleasure of the bishop, the archdiocese has said religious order clergy aren’t accountable to them. —Laura Schulte, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel | Robert Herguth, Chicago Sun-Times, Journal Sentinel, 12 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English clergie, from Anglo-French, from clerc clergyman

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing clergy

• benefit of clergy

Kids Definition

clergy

noun

cler·​gy ˈklər-jē 

plural clergies

: the group of religious officials (as priests, ministers, or rabbis) specially prepared and authorized to conduct religious services