abbe
US //ˈæbi// abbe
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1 French priest (n.) C2 Proficiency Formal Religiona title used for a French priest or a member of the Catholic clergy.
a title or honorific for a French Catholic cleric; it is often used for secular priests who do not belong to a specific religious order.
ExampleThe young Abbe lived in a small house near the village church.
ExampleThe Abbe was a frequent guest at the salon, where his wit and theological insights were highly valued by the local aristocracy.
UsageOften used as a title before a surname or as a direct form of address.
Teacher's tipThis is primarily found in historical literature or contexts involving the French Catholic Church; in modern English, 'priest' or 'father' is more common unless referring specifically to a French context.
Variant of Abbey.