ministry

min-is-try · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A government department headed by a minister.

  2. 2.

    The work or vocation of a religious minister; spiritual service.

  3. 3.

    The period of government under a prime minister or a particular administration.

  4. 4.

    (with the) Ministers of religion collectively.

Forms

plural: ministries

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Ministry of Defence — government department responsible for military affairs
  • •
    enter the ministry — to become a religious minister
  • •
    foreign ministry — government department handling international relations

Related words

See also: department, government, minister
Synonyms: bureau, department, office

Etymology

From Latin ministerium ("service, attendance, ministry"), from minister ("servant, attendant"). Entered English via Old French ministere in the 14th century.