abbess
Translation
abbess
Examples
The abbess was in charge of the entire convent.
The abbess was in charge of the entire convent.
Grammar Patterns
an ((abbess)) a woman who is the head of an abbey of nuns The abbess was in charge of the entire convent.
Similar Words
Synonyms: prioress, mother superior
Etymology
From Late Latin 'abbatissa', the feminine form of 'abbas' (abbot). The suffix '-ess' denotes a female.
Memory Tips
Think of 'abb-' like 'abba' (father) and '-ess' as a female ending, so she is the 'female father' of the convent.