min·is·ter
ˈmi-nə-stər
1
: agent
The angels are ministers of the divine will …—H. P. Liddon
2
a
: one officiating or assisting the officiant in church worship
b
: a clergyperson especially of a Protestant communion
3
a
: the superior (see superior entry 2 sense 1) of one of several religious orders
called also minister-general
b
: the assistant to the rector or the bursar of a Jesuit house
4
: a high officer of state entrusted with the management of a division of governmental activities
the British Minister of Defence
5
a
: a diplomatic representative (such as an ambassador) accredited to the court (see court entry 1 sense 1c) or seat of government of a foreign state
b
: a diplomatic representative ranking below an ambassador
ministered; ministering
ˈmi-nə-st(ə-)riŋ
1
: to function as a minister of religion
2
: to give aid or service
minister to the sick
Cite this Entry
“Minister.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/minister. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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