# abbotric

CEFR C2 · Noun

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

## Definition

a female leader of a religious group, specifically a nun who is in charge of a convent. This is an old-fashioned word that you will rarely see in modern books.

For teachers: a female superior in a religious order, specifically the head of a convent. Archaic in modern usage; historically used to distinguish the female head of a religious house from an abbot.

## Examples

- The abbotric presided over the daily prayers.
- In the 13th century, the abbotric managed the land and resources of the convent while leading the spiritual life of the sisters.
- The historical records detail the abbotric's role in mediating disputes between the local community and the nuns, ensuring the convent remained a center of both spiritual and economic influence.

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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.