# laity

/ˈɫeɪəti/ (US) · /lˈeɪətˌi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/laity
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

people who are not members of a religious group or who do not have a special religious job. It usually refers to ordinary people who are not priests, ministers, or monks.

For teachers: the body of ordinary people in a religion who are not members of the clergy or the monastic orders. Often used in the plural to refer to the general public in a secular context.

## Examples

- The priest spoke to the laity about the new church rules.
- The church leadership decided to involve the laity more in the decision-making process for the new community center.
- While the clergy manage the spiritual aspects of the parish, the laity are responsible for the practical administration and maintenance of the physical buildings.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.