L'abbé (en. The abbot)

/l‿a.bɛ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

noun

A member of the clergy in the Catholic Church, often at the head of an abbey.

The abbot led the morning prayer in the church.

L'abbé a conduit la prière matinale dans l'église.

An honorary title given to certain priests.

The parish abbot was highly respected by the congregation.

L'abbé de la paroisse a été très respecté par les fidèles.

Also used in an informal context to refer to a priest.

He was promoted to the rank of abbot after years of service.

Il a été élevé au rang d'abbé après des années de service.

The word 'abbé' comes from the Latin 'abbas', which means 'father'.

the abbot of an abbey

The priest in charge of an abbey.

l'abbé d'une abbaye

to play the abbot

To behave in an authoritarian or pedantic manner.

faire l'abbé

Abbot Gariaud

An expression often used to refer to a stereotypical priest character.

l'abbé Gariaud

abbey

A monastery or religious community led by an abbot.

abbaye

apse

A semicircular section at the end of a church where the altar is usually located.

abside

absolute

A religious term designating the infinite and perfect nature of God.

absolu

A priest who meddles too much in other people's affairs.

Don't be an abbot, stay out of the gossip.

Ne sois pas un abbé, reste à l'écart des commérages.

A term of endearment for a friend who is often serious.

Come on, abbot, relax a little!

Allez, abbé, détends-toi un peu !