clergy

noun

cler·​gy ˈklər-jē How to pronounce clergy (audio)
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

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.
Many end up in caring professions like nurses, therapists, or members of the clergy. Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025 New churches build their own capacity, gain independence and then send off clergy and members to start more churches. Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 18 Feb. 2025 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 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Clergy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clergy. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

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

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