Definition
abbess
noun
- A woman who is the head of an abbey (a convent or monastery of nuns).
Usage: Religious/historical context
Examples
- The abbess led the community of nuns in daily prayers.
- She was elected abbess of the convent after twenty years of service.
- The abbess oversaw the abbey's finances and spiritual life.
- Medieval abbesses often wielded considerable power and influence.
- The abbess welcomed the visiting bishop to the monastery.