Langimage
English

deacon

|de-a-con|

B2

/ˈdiːkən/

church assistant

Etymology
Etymology Information

'deacon' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'diakonos,' where 'dia-' meant 'through' and 'konos' meant 'dust.'

Historical Evolution

'diakonos' transformed into the Latin word 'diaconus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'deacon' through Old English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'servant' or 'messenger,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a church official.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a member of the clergy, ranking below a priest, who assists in church services and may have other duties.

The deacon assisted the priest during the Sunday service.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45