ministry
nouncommon in dialogue
- //ˈmɪnɪstɹi//
Government department, at the administrative level normally headed by a minister (or equivalent rank, e.g. secretary of state), who holds it as portfolio, especially in a constitutional monarchy, but also as a polity
noun
- 1
Government department, at the administrative level normally headed by a minister (or equivalent rank, e.g. secretary of state), who holds it as portfolio, especially in a constitutional monarchy, but also as a polity
She works for the ministry of finance.
He works for the ministry of defence.
I work for the ministry of education.
They work for the ministry of agriculture.
- 2
The complete body of government ministers (whether or not they are in cabinet) under the leadership of a head of government (such as a prime minister)
The premier offered his last ministry's resignation to the monarch, and is asked to form a new one in accordance with the election results.
- 3
A ministration
- 4
The active practice and education of the minister of a particular religion or faith.
- 5
The clergy of nonapostolic Protestant churches.
- 6
Work of a spiritual or charitable nature.
the present ministry of the Holy Spirit
Etymology
From Middle English mynisterie, borrowed from Old French menistere, in turn borrowed itself from Latin ministerium; equivalent to minister + -y.
Forms
- plural
- ministries
ministry · Government department, at the administrative level normally headed by a minister (or equivalent rank, e.g. secretary of state), who holds it as…
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