ministry

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

• IPA^(key): /ˈmɪnɪstɹi/
• Hyphenation: mi‧nis‧try

ministry (plural ministries)

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.

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. (Christianity) The clergy of nonapostolic Protestant churches.
6. (Christianity) Work of a spiritual or charitable nature.

   the present ministry of the Holy Spirit

• bus ministry
• ministerial

• myristin