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
  • Idaho clergy members told the Idaho Statesman this was a complicated, difficult and painful conversation.
    — Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 17 July 2026
  • Jones has received endorsements from at least a dozen Black clergy.
    — Raisa Habersham, Miami Herald, 16 July 2026
Definition of clergy
Noun
  • Robertson said church leaders can mirror some of the tactics that the religious right use, such as discussing policy issues from the pulpit.
    — Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 18 July 2026
  • The association, which is headquartered in West Sacramento, consists of 32 churches across five states.
    — Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 17 July 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
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Cite this Entry

“First estate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first%20estate. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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