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
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for first estate
Noun
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In fact, Sociologist Rodolfo Soriano Nuñez told CNN Prevost was one of the few bishops in Peru who actively worked to support victims of clergy abuse.—
KC Baker,
People.com,
9 May 2025 -
Influencers wore paper skull caps to mimic Catholic cardinals and video compilations of clergy were mixed with Charli XCX audio.—
Mariel Padilla,
Them.,
8 May 2025
Noun
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These positions, along with his personal modesty and steadfast advocacy for the poor and immigrants, endeared him to political progressives the world over but also inspired a significant conservative backlash, both in the church and without.—
Clarence Page,
Chicago Tribune,
11 May 2025
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Leo has a doctorate in the church’s canon law, which equips him for the task of ensuring existing church laws are applied to investigate cases and hold leaders accountable.—
Christopher Lamb,
CNN Money,
11 May 2025
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Cite this Entry
“First estate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first%20estate. Accessed 23 May. 2025.
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