The term "first estate" refers to the highest social class in medieval European society, including the clergy. Synonyms for "first estate" might include "clergy," "church hierarchy," "priesthood," or "ecclesiastical authority." These terms reflect the close association between the church and political power in medieval Europe, as well as the influence of religious leaders in shaping social, cultural, and intellectual life. Other possible synonyms might include "nobility" or "aristocracy," since these groups also occupied high social positions in medieval society, although they were not necessarily affiliated with the church. Ultimately, the "first estate" represents a unique aspect of medieval European history that continues to fascinate scholars and laypeople alike.