clergy

noun

cler·​gy ˈklər-jē How to pronounce clergy (audio)
plural clergies
Synonyms of clergynext
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 of clergy

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Where are the clergy who once locked arms and marched for progress? — Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 28 June 2026 The notes include when a clergy person was removed from duties, where applicable. — Paula Wethington, CBS News, 25 June 2026 Religious leaders and members of the clergy have also been targeted by Russian soldiers. — Mark Temnycky, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 Survivors have fought for a full public account of priests, with San Francisco the only diocese in the state that has not released such a list of clergy abuse offenders. — Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for clergy

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clergy was in the 13th century

Phrases Containing clergy

Browse Nearby Words

clergical
clergy
clergyable
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Cite this Entry

“Clergy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clergy. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

clergy

noun
cler·​gy ˈklər-jē How to pronounce clergy (audio)
plural clergies
: the group of religious officials (as priests, ministers, or rabbis) specially prepared and authorized to conduct religious services

More from Merriam-Webster on clergy

Nglish: Translation of clergy for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about clergy

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