clergy

noun

cler·​gy ˈklər-jē 

plural clergies

1

: a group ordained to perform pastoral or sacerdotal functions in a Christian church

Members of the clergy have been invited to participate in an interfaith service.

2

: the official or sacerdotal class of a non-Christian religion

Buddhist clergy

Synonyms

• church
• episcopate

Examples of clergy in a Sentence

Local clergy have been invited to participate in an interfaith service.

a member of the clergy

Recent Examples on the Web

The saga began on Jan. 26 when Rev. John Melnick, vicar for clergy of the Archdiocese, announced the allegations and Jacobs’ removal from the Holy Trinity altar during Sunday Mass, which was also broadcast on YouTube. —Kaitlin McCallum, Hartford Courant, 16 Aug. 2025

This time, however, Guerrero is the one putting his mark on the blockbuster work, set to an irreverent set of poems by medieval clergy. —Hannah Edgar, Chicago Tribune, 16 Aug. 2025

The article queried 12 other Baltimore clergy, representing Lutheran, Baptist, Presbyterian, and Methodist churches. —Time, 7 Aug. 2025

Such weddings would take place outside the synagogue and be officiated by someone who is not clergy, such as a friend, relative or judge. —Asaf Elia-Shalev, Sun Sentinel, 7 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English clergie, from Anglo-French, from clerc clergyman

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing clergy

• benefit of clergy

Kids Definition

clergy

noun

cler·​gy ˈklər-jē 

plural clergies

: the group of religious officials (as priests, ministers, or rabbis) specially prepared and authorized to conduct religious services