benefit of clergy

noun phrase

1
: clerical exemption from trial in a civil court
2
: the ministration or sanction of the church

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of benefit of clergy was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near benefit of clergy

Cite this Entry

“Benefit of clergy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benefit%20of%20clergy. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on benefit of clergy

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!