clergyman

noun

cler·​gy·​man ˈklər-jē-mən How to pronounce clergyman (audio)
plural clergymen
Synonyms of clergymannext
: a member of the clergy

Examples of clergyman in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Alongside Garfield’s Ploughman is Cosmo Jarvis as the true historical figure Wat Tyler, Jamie Bell as clergyman John Ball and Thomasin McKenzie as fellow rebel Alyce. — Antonia Blyth, Deadline, 4 Sep. 2026 In 1986, Bishop Desmond Tutu was installed as the first Black clergyman to lead the Anglican Church in southern Africa. — ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026 Free advice could always be had from tavern keepers, clergymen, neighbors or parents. — Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2026 Such details include McCartney’s bare feet and opposite stride and the other members’ attire (Lennon’s white supposedly represents a clergyman, Starr’s black a mourner, and Harrison’s denim a gravedigger). — Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for clergyman

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1513, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of clergyman was circa 1513

Rhymes for clergyman

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Browse Nearby Words

clergyable
clergyman
clergyman's sore throat
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Cite this Entry

“Clergyman.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clergyman. Accessed 15 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

clergyman

noun
cler·​gy·​man ˈklər-ji-mən How to pronounce clergyman (audio)
: a member of the clergy

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