Cleric
/ˈklɛr.ɪk/noun
A member of the clergy or religious order.
Did you know?The term 'cleric' originates from the Latin word for 'clerk', which historically referred to those with the ability to read and write—skills once deemed magical!
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
clericus
“A member of the clergy or a scholar, embodying sacred knowledge.”
Old French
Old French
clergue
“A person of the church; one who possesses ecclesiastical office.”
Middle English
Middle English
clerk
“A scholar or clergyman, emphasizing literacy and religious authority.”
Modern English
English
cleric
“An official of the church, signifying a more formal role in religious practices.”
Explore more surprising origins