1. (n.) The act of ministering; ministration; service; also (in some countries) a government agency, as the Ministry of Defense.

2. (n.) Agency; instrumentality.

3. (n.) The office, duties, or functions of a minister, servant, or agent; ecclesiastical, executive, or ambassadorial function or profession.

4. (n.) The body of ministers of state; also, the clergy, as a body.

5. (n.) Administration; rule; term in power; as, the ministry of Pitt.