first estate

as in clergy
the group ordained to perform clerical functions in the Christian church a nation in which the first estate had long held a privileged position

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for first estate
Noun
  • The sit-in inspired similar ones around North Carolina and a national movement with 700,000 students, clergy members and others fighting for racial equality.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 12 Sep. 2025
  • While the clergy and staff of North Orange County’s synagogues – Temple Beth Tikvah, Temple Beth Ohr and Chabad of Yorba Linda – prepare for the services ahead, hundreds of local kitchens are abuzz with preparations for the celebratory meal launching the holiday.
    Judy Bart Kancigor, Oc Register, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Andrew quit public life in 2019 over his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein but makes occasional appearances at private family events, usually at church.
    Jack Royston, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025
  • This was at every church function.
    Sid Evans, Southern Living, 16 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry

“First estate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first%20estate. Accessed 19 Sep. 2025.

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