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

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for first estate
Noun
  • After celebrating an Ash Wednesday service with four migrants who had just arrived at a detention center near Chicago, clergy there are working with immigration authorities to set up regular visits.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 8 Mar. 2026
  • Like the church clergy, friars and monks have also experienced dwindling numbers and resources.
    Anna Ortiz, Chicago Tribune, 8 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Authorities allege that Shaleta pocketed $30,000 in monthly cash payments from a tenant of the church’s social hall over months.
    Doha Madani, NBC news, 11 Mar. 2026
  • A lot of actual music was happening in church.
    Devon Ivie, Vulture, 11 Mar. 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“First estate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first%20estate. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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