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ministry

n.
US //ˈmɪnəstɹi// UK //mˈɪnɪstɹi// min·istry
  1. 1 government department (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a large department of a government that deals with a specific area, like health or education.

    a high-level government department or administrative division, typically headed by a minister.

    Example

    The Ministry of Education announced new rules for primary schools today.

    Example

    The Ministry of Finance is currently reviewing the proposed tax reforms to ensure they align with the national budget targets.

    Usage

    Often capitalized when referring to a specific entity, such as the Ministry of Defence.
  2. 2 the body of ministers (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    all the ministers of a government acting together as a group.

    the collective body of government ministers under the leadership of a head of government.

    Example

    The prime minister met with his entire ministry to discuss the crisis.

    Example

    During the final months of the previous ministry, several key legislative initiatives were abandoned due to internal disagreements.

    Teacher's tip

    In this sense, it refers to the people and the period of their administration rather than a building or department.
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  1. 3 religious work (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Religion

    the work or career of a religious leader, such as a priest or pastor.

    the office, duties, or functions of a minister of religion; the collective body of clergy in certain denominations.

    Example

    After finishing his studies, he decided to enter the ministry.

    Example

    She dedicated her life to the ministry, focusing her efforts on providing spiritual guidance to marginalized communities in the city.
Origin

From Middle English mynisterie, borrowed from Old French menistere, in turn borrowed itself from Latin ministerium; equivalent to minister + -y.

Word family

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