Minister

Definition

Minister is a noun and verb. As a noun, it refers to a member of government in charge of a particular department or a religious leader authorized to perform spiritual duties. As a verb, it means to attend to the needs of someone, particularly in a religious or caregiving context.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪnɪstər/
• Respelling: MIN-uh-stur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪnɪstə/
• Respelling: MIN-uh-stuh

Etymology

The word "minister" originates from the Latin "minister," meaning "servant" or "attendant." It was adopted into Old French as "ministre," and later into Middle English. Initially, it referred to a servant or subordinate, later evolving to denote someone serving in a religious or governmental capacity.

Derivatives

• Ministry (noun)
• Ministerial (adjective)
• Ministration (noun)
• Ministering (present participle)
• Under-minister (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Clergyman
• Official
• Attendant

Antonyms

• Layman
• Follower
• Served

Usage

The term "minister" is used in both governmental and religious contexts. For example, "The Prime Minister addressed the nation" refers to a political role, while "He was ordained as a minister" refers to a religious leader. As a verb, it is often used in contexts such as "She ministered to the sick during the pandemic."

Related Terms

• Pastor: A religious leader in a Christian church.
• Secretary: A governmental official in certain systems, equivalent to a minister in others.
• Administrator: Someone who manages or oversees operations.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A member of a government responsible for a specific department: Refers to political office.
  • Example: "The Minister of Education announced new policies."
• A religious leader authorized to perform spiritual duties: Refers to a role within a religious institution.
  • Example: "The minister led the Sunday service."

Verb

• To attend to the needs of someone: Refers to providing care or assistance, often in a religious or spiritual context.
  • Example: "She ministered to the wounded soldiers."