minister

min-is-ter · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A head of a government department.

  2. 2.

    A member of the clergy, especially in Protestant churches.

  3. 3.

    A diplomatic representative ranking below an ambassador.

  4. 4.

    To attend to the needs of someone.

  5. 5.

    To serve as a religious minister.

Forms

plural: ministers

Related words

See also: clergy, official, secretary
Synonyms: clergyman, official, secretary

Etymology

From Old French "ministre," from Latin "minister" meaning "servant, attendant," from "minus" (less) + comparative suffix "-ter." Originally meant "servant" before taking on governmental and religious meanings.