Word
chaplin
Phoneticschap·lin
/ˈtʃæpɫən/
Definition
n. a person who works as a priest or religious leader for a specific group, like in a hospital, the army, or a prison. They provide support and guidance to people who might not be able to go to a regular church.
n. a member of the clergy or a layperson commissioned to provide religious or spiritual care within a secular institution. Often serves in military, medical, or correctional contexts.
Usage
Commonly used in institutional contexts such as 'hospital chaplain' or 'prison chaplain'.
Pitfall
the chaplain of the church
the priest of the church
A chaplain is specifically attached to an institution (like a school or army) rather than a traditional parish or church congregation.
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/chaplin