1. A religious leader: This is the most common definition. A cleric is a person ordained for religious service, particularly in Christian denominations. They are often responsible for leading religious services, providing spiritual guidance, and performing religious rites. Examples include:
* Priests: In the Catholic Church and many other Christian denominations.
* Pastors: In Protestant denominations.
* Rabbis: In Judaism.
* Imams: In Islam.
2. An administrative official: In the past, "cleric" could also refer to a secular administrative official, particularly in the Middle Ages. This meaning is less common today.
In summary: While "cleric" is most often associated with religious figures, it can also have a historical administrative meaning. The specific meaning is usually clear from the context.