noun
minister
An official entrusted with representing a government's authority.
The finance minister presents the government's budget to parliament today.
Etymology
Latin minister named a servant or assistant. The political title retains the idea of service, applied to an official entrusted with carrying out a ruler's or government's business.
More examples
- The health minister announces new funding for rural hospitals.
- Trade ministers from several countries meet to discuss tariffs.
- The country's minister in Stockholm delivers an official diplomatic message.
Forms
minister · ministers
ministerial adjective — Relating to a government minister's duties.
ministry noun — A government department led by a minister.
Similar words
- secretary
- Heads certain government departments, especially in the United States.
- ambassador
- Usually the highest-ranking diplomat representing a country abroad.