Definition of: minister

(min′is·tər) noun
1. The chief of an executive department of a government.
2. One commissioned to represent his government in diplomatic intercourse with another government.
3. One who is authorized to preach the gospel and administer the ordinances of the church; a clergyman.
4. One who acts in subservience to the will of another; a servant; agent.
5. One who promotes or dispenses.
—v.i.
1. To give attendance or aid; provide for the wants or needs of someone.
2. To be conducive; contribute.
—v.t.
3. To administer or apply.
4. Archaic To supply; furnish. See synonyms under SERVE. [<OF ministre <L minister an attendant <minor less; after L magister master <magis greater]