abate

abbot

noun ah-BAH-teh Rare

Origin: Late Latin abbas, from Aramaic abba (father)

Usage Note

Abate is the head of a monastery (abbazia). The feminine equivalent is badessa (abbess). In historical Italian society the title abate was also used loosely for any clergyman with an academic role, even outside monastic life. The plural is abati.

Examples

"L'abate ha benedetto i fedeli."

Natural Translation

The abbot blessed the faithful.

Literal Translation

The abbot has blessed the faithful.

Related Words

Explore Italian by topic

ItalianNow

Italian Dialects vs Standard Italian: A Guide

Standard Italian works everywhere, so relax: this three-layer guide to Italian dialects vs standard Italian shows what to ignore and what to notice.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

Italian Diminutives: -ino, -etto, -one Explained

Italian diminutives like -ino, -etto, and -one signal size, affection, or contempt. Learn to read the feeling, dodge gender flips, and spot false diminutives.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

Italian Prepositions: A, In, Di, Da, Su Made Simple

Cities take a, countries take in, origin is di, agents are da. Master the five Italian prepositions a, in, di, da, su and their contractions fast.

June 5, 2026 6 min read

ItalianNow

You're Welcome in Italian: 8 Ways Beyond Prego

You're welcome in Italian is more than prego: say figurati to friends, si figuri to strangers, di niente, non c'è di che, or grazie a te. Pick the right one.

June 9, 2026 6 min read