holy orders

noun

1. (used with a singular verb) the rite or sacrament of ordination.
2. (used with a singular verb) the rank or status of an ordained Christian minister.
3. (used with a plural verb) the major degrees or grades of the Christian ministry.

holy orders

plural noun

1. the sacrament or rite whereby a person is admitted to the Christian ministry
2. the grades of the Christian ministry
3. the rank or status of an ordained Christian minister

Word History and Origins

Origin of holy orders¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

After receiving Holy Orders he returned to his native village and took over the care of its souls.

From Project Gutenberg

On his recovery he announced his intention of going to Oxford to read for holy orders.

From Project Gutenberg

His response caused the candidate for holy orders to open his eyes to the widest.

From Project Gutenberg

Life is a little vapour that passeth away, as we are told by those in holy orders.

From Project Gutenberg

He made his profession and received holy orders in 1163; but we have no further clue to the date of his birth.

From Project Gutenberg