first estate

noun

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
  1. clergy
  2. church
Noun
  • Still, there were only eight African Anglican clergy in Kenya by 1920, and the first Kenyan bishops would not be consecrated until 1955.
    — Stephanie TriplettAll, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026
  • An influx of new clergy members is stepping into leadership roles at South Florida synagogues ahead of the Jewish New Year.
    — Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 3 Aug. 2026
Definition of clergy
Noun
  • On its edge is the Romanesque church of Pieve di San Leolino, which features a 16th-century cloister and valley views.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Aug. 2026
  • Inside, take delight in cozy touches like a wood-burning fireplace and glass windows that were salvaged from an old church.
    — Elise Taylor, Vogue, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of church
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.

Browse Nearby Words

first-class
first estate
first estates
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“First estate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first%20estate. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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