Synonyms for

Ordained

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

Definition

to make someone a priest or minister

Synonyms & similar words

order ordinate decreed appointed prescribed enact ordain consecrate consecrate install appoint commission delegate designate nominate promote authorize empower legitimize license validate vest accredit certify entitle recognize sanction

Synonyms by register

Formal

decreed appointed designated consecrated

Informal

chosen picked slated

Literary

destined fated

Antonyms

unappointed unauthorized disallowed forbidden prohibited rejected

Common collocations

  • ordained minister
  • ordained priest
  • ordained by fate
  • ordained by God
  • ordained to be
  • newly ordained

Word family

noun ordination
verb ordain
adjective ordained

Usage note

Often used in religious contexts to describe the act of making someone a minister or priest. Can also be used more broadly to mean 'destined' or 'decreed'.

Example sentences

  1. The bishop will ordain the new priest next week.
  2. He was ordained as a minister last year.
  3. The church ordains priests after years of training.
  4. The ceremony to ordain the priest was very special.
  5. The bishop can ordain priests and deacons.

Quotes

  • I was ordained as a priest in my mid-twenties, and I knew that I was going to be able to serve the church in an exciting and meaningful way.
  • Being ordained as a minister was a dream come true for me, and I'm grateful to be able to serve my community.
  • Ordaining new priests is one of the most important responsibilities of a bishop.

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