# abbacy

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abbacy
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the position or office of an abbot. It refers to the leadership role in a large religious community.

For teachers: the office, position, or state of an abbot. Often used in historical or ecclesiastical contexts to describe the highest rank within a monastic order.

## Examples

- He spent many years in the abbacy of the local monastery.
- The transition of the abbacy was a significant event for the entire community, requiring a formal ceremony and the blessing of the bishop.
- Scholars of medieval history often examine the political influence wielded by the abbacy, noting how these religious leaders frequently acted as de facto governors of vast tracts of land.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.