clergy

[ klur-jee ]

noun

, plural cler·gies.

1. the group or body of ordained persons in a religion, as distinguished from the laity.

clergy

/ ˈklɜːdʒɪ /

noun

1. the collective body of men and women ordained as religious ministers, esp of the Christian Church clericalpastoral

Grammar Note

See collective noun.

Other Words From

• clergy·like adjective
• anti·clergy adjective
• pro·clergy adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of clergy¹

1175–1225; Middle English clerge, clergie < Old French clergé (< Late Latin clericātus office of a priest; cleric, -ate ³ ), clergie, equivalent to clerc cleric + -ie -y ³, with -g- after clergé

Word History and Origins

Origin of clergy¹

C13: from Old French clergie, from clerc ecclesiastic, clerk

Example Sentences

While the Church has voted to move to introduce prayers for same-sex couples, clergy will also be allowed not to lead such blessings if they feel they do not want to.

From BBC

"If there are senior clergy who have broken the law then they need to be called to account," he added.

From BBC

On Monday the Bishop of Newcastle, Helen Ann Harlety, became the most senior member of the clergy to call for the Archbishop to stand down.

From BBC

Romero, who hosted neighborhood meetings, recruited local clergy to the cause, and helped park vendors threatened by gang members, orchestrated weekend festivals that included singers, dancers and puppet masters.

From Los Angeles Times

He said he had asked hundreds of people for forgiveness, including elected officials, neighborhood organizers, Black clergy and other religious leaders.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• priesthood