Definition

Noun: A cleric is a person who is a member of the clergy or holds a religious office. This term refers to individuals formally recognized and ordained for religious duties, such as priests, ministers, rabbis, imams, or monks.

Usage

The word "cleric" is a formal term used to describe a religious leader or official. It is often used in general, academic, or journalistic contexts to refer to such figures without specifying a particular faith or denomination. - It functions as a countable noun (e.g., a cleric, several clerics). - It is typically neutral but carries a formal tone.

Examples

• The cleric delivered a powerful sermon to the congregation.
• Local clerics from different faiths attended the interfaith dialogue.
• She sought advice from a senior cleric in her community.
• The government consulted with religious clerics on the new policy.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: While primarily a noun, "cleric" can sometimes function attributively to describe things related to clergy.
  • He wore traditional cleric attire. (This describes attire typical of a cleric.)
• In historical or fantasy contexts: The term is commonly used in discussions of medieval history or in fantasy literature/games to denote a priestly character with religious authority or magical abilities based on faith.
  • The paladin consulted the cleric for healing and divine guidance.

Variants and Related Words

• Clergy (noun, collective): The body of all people ordained for religious duties.
  • The clergy attended the conference.
• Clerical (adjective): Relating to the work or role of a cleric or the clergy.
  • He has clerical duties at the cathedral.
• Clergyman/Clergywoman (noun): Specific gendered terms for a male or female member of the clergy. ("Cleric" is often preferred as a gender-neutral term.)

Synonyms

• Clergyman/Clergywoman: A more specific, gendered synonym.
• Ecclesiastic: A formal synonym, often used in historical or official Christian contexts.
• Minister: A common term in many Protestant Christian traditions.
• Priest: A common term in Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican traditions.
• Divine: A somewhat archaic or literary term for a theologian or cleric.

Antonyms

• Layperson: A person who is not ordained or not a member of the clergy.
• Secularist: A person who advocates the separation of religion from civic affairs.

Phrases and Collocations

• Senior cleric: A cleric holding a high rank or position of authority.
  • The decision was announced by a senior cleric.
• Muslim/Christian/Jewish cleric: A cleric belonging to a specified religious tradition.
  • A prominent Muslim cleric issued a statement.
• To ordain as a cleric: The formal process of appointing someone to a clerical position.
  • He was ordained as a cleric last year.

Noun

1. a clergyman or other person in religious orders