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

Adams delivered the heated remark while speaking at an event at Brooklyn’s Rehoboth Cathedral — a gathering billed as a rally for his reelection in June’s Democratic mayoral primary — and he was introduced by a handful of clergy members who sang his praises. —Roni Jacobson, New York Daily News, 17 Feb. 2025

Ranking above judges: clergy, auto mechanics, police officers, funeral directors and day care providers. —Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 14 Jan. 2025

In the 16th century, Rabelais furnished his novels with long lists of books, using the titles to satirize ecclesiastical libraries, the clergy, and religion in general. —Jonathon Keats, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

The allegations have caused outrage among survivors of clergy abuse, who feel betrayed by the Saints' involvement in the scandal. —David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Feb. 2025

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