ministry

English

/ˈmɪnɪstɹi/

noun
Definitions
  • Government department, at the administrative level normally headed by a minister (or equivalent rank, e.g. secretary of state), who holds it as portfolio, especially in a constitutional monarchy, but also as a polity
  • The complete body of government ministers (whether or not they are in cabinet) under the leadership of a head of government (such as a prime minister)
  • A ministration
  • The active practice and education of the minister of a particular religion or faith.
  • (Christianity) The clergy of nonapostolic Protestant churches.
  • (Christianity) Work of a spiritual or charitable nature.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English mynisterie derived from Old French menistere derived from Latin ministerium (service, employment, ministry) affix from English minister.

Origin

English

minister

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

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Cognates and derived terms