ecclesiastic — a person who is a member of the clergy, especially a Christian priest
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a person who is a member of the clergy, especially a Christian priest
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪˌkliːziˈæstɪk/
Example Sentences
- The young ecclesiastic was surprised when his smartphone rang during the solemn prayer.
- Medieval ecclesiastic power often rivaled that of kings and nobles.
- The ecclesiastic accidentally blessed the wedding cake instead of the couple, causing everyone to burst into laughter.
ecclesiastic
NOUN[/ɪˌkliːziˈæstɪk/]
a person who is a member of the clergy, especially a Christian priest

The ecclesiastic welcomed everyone with a warm smile before the service began.

The ecclesiastic devoted his life to serving the church and its people. (ecclesia = church (Greek) + -astic = relating to)

The ecclesiastic gave a fantastic sermon, and the congregation responded enthusiastically.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Ancient Greek ekklesia, originally meaning a public assembly or gathering of citizens. As Christianity spread, the term evolved to specifically denote the church and clergy, shifting from its secular civic context to religious significance.
Breakdown
ekklesia (assembly, church) + -astikos (pertaining to, relating to). The suffix -astikos transforms the noun into an adjective meaning 'of or relating to the church.'
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The young ecclesiastic was surprised when his smartphone rang during the solemn prayer.”
“Medieval ecclesiastic power often rivaled that of kings and nobles.”
“The ecclesiastic accidentally blessed the wedding cake instead of the couple, causing everyone to burst into laughter.”
“She studied ecclesiastic law to better understand church governance.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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