clergy — the body of all people ordained for religious duties, especially in the Christian Church
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the body of all people ordained for religious duties, especially in the Christian Church
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈklɜːrdʒi/
Example Sentences
- The clergy at the wedding seemed more nervous than the bride and groom.
- Members of the clergy from different denominations worked together for charity.
- The young clergy member accidentally started his sermon with 'Good evening' at 10 AM.
clergy
NOUN[/ˈklɜːrdʒi/]
the body of all people ordained for religious duties, especially in the Christian Church
Image coming soon
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Greek kleros, meaning 'inheritance' or 'lot,' which passed into Latin as clericus and subsequently Old French as clergie. Originally, it referred to the clergy's divine calling, conceptualized as a portion or inheritance granted by God.
Breakdown
Greek kleros (inheritance, lot) + Latin suffix -icus (pertaining to) = clericus, which evolved through Old French clergie into Middle English clergy, referring collectively to ordained members of the church.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The clergy at the wedding seemed more nervous than the bride and groom.”
“Members of the clergy from different denominations worked together for charity.”
“The young clergy member accidentally started his sermon with 'Good evening' at 10 AM.”
“The clergy provided spiritual guidance during the community crisis.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.