first estate

Definition of first estatenext
as in clergy
the group ordained to perform clerical functions in the Christian church a nation in which the first estate had long held a privileged position

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for first estate
Noun
  • The laws have been challenged by families representing a variety of religions, including Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism and clergy, in addition to nonreligious families.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 21 Feb. 2026
  • The laws have been challenged by families representing a variety of religions, including Christianity, Judaism and Hinduism, and clergy, in addition to nonreligious families.
    CBS News, CBS News, 21 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The church will have an alternative menu of mac and cheese or cheese pizza.
    Lucia Cheng, Des Moines Register, 18 Feb. 2026
  • Contrary to popular belief, Lent is not exclusively observed by Catholics, but is also practiced by Orthodox Christians and Protestants, including Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian and some Evangelical churches.
    Julia Gomez, USA Today, 18 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry

“First estate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first%20estate. Accessed 25 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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