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
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Tensions also grew between Iraq's Sunni institutions over conflicting announcements, with dozens of Iraqis performing Eid prayers on Sunday, outside mosques and without clergy, according to media reports.—
Ron Estes,
MSNBC Newsweek,
31 Mar. 2025 -
The fledglings were savored by the nobility and the clergy, who, according to Fritz’s research, passed decrees to keep commoners from killing them, to preserve them for themselves.—
Nick Paumgarten,
The New Yorker,
10 Feb. 2025
Noun
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The company partners with senior living centers, churches, and insurance providers to offer on-site classes, giving accessibility to those who may not have the resources or mobility to visit a gym.—
USA Today,
USA Today,
19 Apr. 2025
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Fact to know: In collaboration with the Dilworth Historic Commission, the project team used traditional materials and techniques — including the help of a master stonemason with access to original quarries — to ensure consistency with the church’s limestone facade.—
Heidi Finley,
Charlotte Observer,
18 Apr. 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 2 May. 2025.
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