CLERGY Synonyms: 14 Similar and Opposite Words

clergy

noun

ˈklər-jē

as in church

the group ordained to perform clerical functions in the Christian church when people find out she's a member of the clergy, they suddenly change their manner

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of clergy For instance, Orthodox Judaism, a branch of the religion that more strictly adheres to Jewish law, doesn’t typically allow female clergy. —

Claire Murphy, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2026 Earlier this year, its clergy and staff underwent active shooter prevention and preparedness training, according to a post on Temple Israel's Facebook page. —

Arkansas Online, 14 Mar. 2026 Earlier this year, its clergy and staff underwent active-shooter prevention and preparedness training, according to a post on Temple Israel’s Facebook page. —

Corey Williams, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2026 When the killings started in 2016, clergy were the first responders, often called upon to say prayers for the dead and preside over funerals. —

Sheila Coronel, The Atlantic, 13 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for clergy

Recent Examples of Synonyms for clergy

Noun

For example, there was no mandate that immigration officers wear identification or other changes the White House had floated earlier in talks, including a ban on immigration enforcement at schools, churches, hospitals and other sensitive places, the person said.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 25 Mar. 2026
The victims, mostly low-wage immigrant workers, were fathers, brothers and sons — people with deep community, church and family ties who were working to support their families.

— Joe Rubin, Sacbee.com, 25 Mar. 2026