# parson

/ˈpɑɹsən/ (US) · /pˈɑːsən/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/parson
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a person who is in charge of a church or a group of people in a village. This word is mostly used in old stories or poems.

For teachers: a clergyman or priest, specifically one who has the care of a parish. Often used in historical or literary contexts to refer to a local minister.

## Examples

- The parson visited every family in the village.
- In the old village, the parson was the most respected man because he knew everyone's history.
- The novel opens with the parson walking through the misty fields, carrying a heavy Bible and a sense of quiet authority that defined his role in the community.

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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.