FIRST ESTATE Synonyms: 14 Similar and Opposite Words

first estate

noun

Definition of first estate

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

laity

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for first estate

Noun

The patron saint of charitable societies, he is primarily recognized for his charity and compassion for the poor, though he is also known for his reform of the clergy and for his early role in opposing Jansenism.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026
In 1832, when a cholera pandemic reached New York City, clergy called for a national day of fasting and prayer.

— Jim Downs, STAT, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of clergy

Noun

Prosecutors allege Wallace embezzled about $390,000 from the church’s coffers between April 2019 and September 2025, spending some of the funds on rent and travel expenses.

— Iris Kwok, Los Angeles Times, 31 Oct. 2026
President Andrew Jackson refused to proclaim one, citing the separation of church and state, so states and churches held their own.

— Jim Downs, STAT, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of church

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first-class

first estate

first estates

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“First estate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first%20estate. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of first estate

noun

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