minister
minister Lexical Profile
minister Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A senior member of a government, especially in a parliamentary system, appointed to head an executive department and formulate state policy.
"The finance minister announced a new budget aimed at reducing inflation."
A member of the clergy, especially in Protestant churches, authorized to lead worship services, preach, and perform religious ceremonies.
"The local minister delivered a moving sermon to the congregation on Sunday morning."
A diplomatic representative accredited to a foreign country, ranking immediately below an ambassador.
"Before the legation was upgraded to an embassy, a diplomatic minister represented the nation's interests abroad."
• verb
To attend to the needs of someone, especially by providing care, comfort, or spiritual guidance (usually followed by 'to').
"Medical volunteers worked tirelessly to minister to the injured survivors after the earthquake."
To officiate or serve as a member of the clergy in a church or religious community.
"She ministered at the rural parish for over a decade before retiring."
• Rhymes for minister
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from Old French ministre, from Latin minister ('servant, attendant'), derived from minus ('less') with the comparative suffix -ter, originally contrasting with magister ('master', from magis 'more').