Synonyms for

Missionary

Verb / ˈmɪʃʌˌneri: / Another word for missionary — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A person who is sent to a foreign country to teach others about their religion or to do other charitable work.

Synonyms & similar words

missional missioner evangelist proselytizer apostle preacher minister clergyman missioner crusader ambassador diplomat envoy emissary representative delegate agent messenger advocate campaigner fighter reformer

Synonyms by register

Formal

evangelist propagandist proselytizer advocate

Informal

preacher revivalist

Literary

apostle herald

Antonyms

secularist agnostic atheist skeptic disbeliever nonbeliever

Common collocations

  • missionary work
  • missionary zeal
  • missionary position
  • missionary society
  • missionary outreach
  • missionary effort
  • missionary family

Word family

noun missionary
verb missionize
adjective missionary

Usage note

While 'missionary' often refers to religious proselytizers, it can also describe someone who promotes a cause or belief system with great zeal. The term 'missionary position' refers to a sexual position and is a common, though sometimes sensitive, collocation.

Example sentences

  1. The missionary helped build a school in the village.
  2. The missionary preached to a large crowd.
  3. The missionary taught the children how to read.
  4. The missionary brought medicine to the sick.
  5. The missionary lived in a small hut.

Quotes

  • The work of a missionary is never done.
  • Missionaries are the unsung heroes of the world.
  • Missionaries bring hope to those who have none.

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