Definition of the word minister

The word "minister" originated in the 13th century from the Latin "ministrare," meaning "to serve." Initially, it referred to a servant or attendant who performed various tasks for someone else. Over time, the term evolved to describe a high-ranking official or priest responsible for serving the ruler or church. In the 15th century, the term began to be used to describe a government official, particularly one who administered a state or country. This sense of the word was influenced by the French "ministre," which was used to describe a chief officer or advisor. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the term "minister" also came to be used to describe a member of a religious order, such as a clergyman or priest. Today, the word "minister" has a variety of meanings, including a government official, a religious leader, or a servant who performs a variety of tasks.