pastor
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpæs.tər/
KK: /ˈpæstər/
noun
Definition
A person who leads a Christian church and provides spiritual guidance to its members.
Example
The pastor delivered an inspiring sermon on Sunday morning.
Conversation
Did you hear that our pastor is leaving the church?
Yeah, I heard about that! It's such a big change.
I wonder who will replace the pastor next.
Hopefully someone who can connect with the community well.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
minister
clergyman
shepherd
Antonyms
layman
follower
congregant
transitive verb
Definition
To serve as a spiritual leader or minister in a church.
Example
He was chosen to pastor the new congregation.
Tense Forms
Past: pastored
Past Participle: pastored
Conversation
I heard you’re going to pastor at the new church this Sunday.
Yeah, I'm really excited about it!
That sounds like a great opportunity to connect with the community.
Root Explanation
Pastor → It is derived from the Latin word "pastor" (meaning shepherd). The term originally referred to someone who tends to a flock, particularly in a religious context, guiding and caring for the spiritual well-being of a congregation.
Memory Tip
Think of a shepherd caring for their flock — that's why a pastor is someone who guides and looks after a community.
Visually Confused Words
astor
unpastor
copastor
pashto
castor
subpastor
pato
asor