What does clerically mean?
"Clerically" is a formal English adverb describing actions performed in a manner connected with the clergy or with clerical work. It derives from "clerical," the adjective form of "cleric," and ultimately traces back through Late Latin and Greek roots associated with the ordained ministry. In practice, the word appears most often in religious, legal, or administrative writing — for example, when describing how records were kept, how duties were discharged, or how someone behaved in an official church capacity. It carries a neutral, somewhat formal register and is considerably rarer than related terms such as "clerical" or "clergy." Because it can refer both to priestly functions and to office-based administrative tasks, context usually determines which sense applies. Writers typically reach for it when they want precision about the ecclesiastical or bureaucratic character of an action, though simpler phrasing is often preferred in everyday prose.
adverbIn a manner relating to the clergy or to clerical work; in the style or capacity of a member of the clergy.
- In a manner relating to or characteristic of the clergy or their duties.
- In a manner relating to clerical (office or administrative) work.
"The parish records had been maintained clerically for over two centuries."
"The bishop acted clerically when he presided over the ordination ceremony."
"The documents were sorted clerically rather than by subject matter."
The 'cler' in clerically traces back to the Greek klēros, meaning 'lot' — because the clergy were once seen as those whose share was allotted by God.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of clerically
"Clerically" is formed from the adjective "clerical" plus the adverbial suffix "-ly." "Clerical" comes from Late Latin "clericalis," pertaining to the clergy, from "clericus" (clergyman), which itself derives from Greek "klērikos," belonging to the clergy, from "klēros," meaning "lot" or "inheritance" — a reference to the clergy as those whose portion was allotted by God. Cognates include "clergy," "cleric," and "clerk," all sharing this same root.
Related word forms
How clerically is actually used
A formal, relatively rare adverb used mainly in religious, historical, or administrative contexts. It is far less common than its base adjective 'clerical'.
Easily confused with clerically
Critically means in a manner involving judgment or crisis, while clerically means in a manner relating to the clergy or office work.