clergy
Translation
clergy, clerics, ministry
Examples
The local clergy were invited to the event.
The local clergy were invited to the event.
She felt a calling to join the clergy.
She felt a calling to join the clergy.
Grammar Patterns
the clergy the group of ordained religious leaders The clergy are responsible for church services.
to join the clergy to become an ordained religious leader He decided to join the clergy after university.
Similar Words
Synonyms: priesthood, ministry, the cloth; Antonyms: laity, laypeople
Etymology
From Old French 'clergié', from Late Latin 'clericatus', from 'clericus' meaning 'clerk, clergyman'. It originally referred to literate people, who were often in the church.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'clerk' in old times. They were often educated by the church, so 'clergy' refers to the group of church officials.