What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
theocrat
Example
The ancient Egyptians had a theocratic system where the pharaoh was both a political and religious leader. [theocrat: noun]
Example
The Puritans in colonial America believed in a theocratic form of government. [theocratic: adjective]
cleric
Example
The cleric led the congregation in prayer. [cleric: noun]
Example
She studied theology and became a cleric in her church. [cleric: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cleric is a more common word than theocrat and is used more widely in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between theocrat and cleric?
Cleric is generally considered a more formal word than theocrat, which has a more specialized and less common usage.