clergyman
UK: ˈklɜːdʒimən | US: ˈklɜːrdʒimən
n. a male member of the clergy, especially in a Christian church
clergyman = clergy<religious body> + man<male human>
- clergy: Derived from Old French clergie (learned men, clergy), from Late Latin clericus (clergyman, priest), ultimately from Greek klērikos (pertaining to an inheritance, later "of the clergy"). The term originally referred to those literate in religious matters.
- man: From Old English mann (human being, male adult), with Germanic roots.
Etymology Origin:
The word clergyman combines clergy (the collective body of religious leaders) with man (male individual). Historically, clergy evolved from Greek klērikos, which initially denoted those entitled to a religious inheritance. Over time, it narrowed to mean ordained church officials. The addition of man specifies gender, reflecting the male-dominated structure of traditional Christian clergy.
The clergyman delivered a powerful sermon on Sunday.
As a clergyman, he devoted his life to serving the parish.
The young clergyman visited the sick in the hospital.
The clergyman wore traditional robes during the ceremony.
She sought advice from the local clergyman about her marriage.