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.

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