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

In this position, she’s been providing support to clergy who are on leave, become disabled or in spiritual crisis.

From Washington Blade

There are anti-crime programs that might work but they need buy-in from the entire community including activists and the clergy who must work in concert with our political leadership.

From Washington Blade

It was not unusual, Chapnin says, for people with an intelligence background to advise or even join the clergy.

From TIme

Rather than make the clergy rethink its commitment to the fascist cause, the carnage just seemed to confirm their view that civilization itself was under threat.

From Time

Advocates, clergy and elected leaders celebrated the city holiday while pleading for full voting rights.

From Washington Post

As for the federal authorities, they have made themselves available but the clergy have not requested special protection.

From The Daily Beast

The Coalition is comprised of labor unions, anti-war activists, clergy, and so-called black empowerment groups.

From The Daily Beast

African American clergy are getting in on the action as well.

From The Daily Beast

Akin to the clergy receiving “The Call” from God himself, Minaj has been touched by a booty angel.

From The Daily Beast

There are supportive African (and African-American) clergy calling for coexistence rather than violence.

From The Daily Beast

He gives a list of the sponsors of the baptized Indians, who included many of the French nobility and clergy.

From Project Gutenberg

Among the clergy therein he finds no offenses, save that a few have gambled in public; these are promptly disciplined.

From Project Gutenberg

Visitation of the ecclesiastical cabildo, clergy of Manila, and province of Pampanga.

From Project Gutenberg

The country clergy are without doubt the most over-rated persons in the country—I mean, of course, from a fiscal point of view.

From Project Gutenberg

This body consisted of the nobility, the higher clergy, and representatives, chosen by the people from all parts of France.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• priesthood