devil-dodger
Definition
Noun: - A colloquial term for a clergyman, especially a preacher or minister, often used humorously or disparagingly. The word combines "devil" (representing sin or evil) and "dodger" (someone who avoids or evades something), suggesting a person who helps others avoid the devil or sin.
Usage Examples
- (The local minister delivered an inspiring religious talk.)
- (He was a passionate preacher who frequently spoke about resisting evil.)
Advanced Usage
- "to be a devil-dodger": to serve as a clergyman, often with a connotation of being overly zealous or simplistic.
- Some folks called him a devil-dodger because of his constant talk about hellfire. (Some people referred to him as a preacher due to his frequent warnings about damnation.)
Variants and Related Words
- Devil (n): the supreme spirit of evil; Satan.
- The story describes the devil tempting people to sin. (The narrative portrays Satan luring individuals into wrongdoing.)
- Dodger (n): a person who avoids something, often through cunning or skill.
- He was a tax dodger, always finding loopholes to avoid paying. (He avoided taxes by exploiting legal gaps.)
Synonyms
- Clergyman: a male religious leader, such as a priest or minister.
- Preacher: a person who delivers religious sermons.
- Minister: a person authorized to conduct religious worship.
Related Idioms
- "To dodge the devil": to avoid sin or evil influences.
- He tried to dodge the devil by attending church regularly. (He attempted to stay away from sin through frequent religious practice.)
- "Devil's advocate": a person who argues a contrary position for discussion's sake.
- She played devil's advocate to test the strength of our argument. (She argued the opposite side to challenge our reasoning.)