Langimage
English

non-clergy

|non/cler/gy|

B2

🇺🇸

/nɑn ˈklɜrdʒi/

🇬🇧

/nɒn ˈklɜːdʒi/

not clergy

Etymology
Etymology Information

'non-clergy' originates from the prefix 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'clergy' from Old French 'clergié', which meant 'clergy or learned men'.

Historical Evolution

'clergié' transformed into the Middle English word 'clergie', and eventually became the modern English word 'clergy'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, 'clergy' referred to learned men or scholars, but over time it evolved to specifically mean religious leaders.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

individuals who are not members of the clergy or religious leaders.

The event was attended by both clergy and non-clergy members.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41