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abad

ah-BAHDaˈβað

“abad” means “abbot” in Spanish (the male head of a monastery).

abbot

Also: superior
NounmB2formal
A kind-looking man in a long brown robe holding a wooden staff, standing in front of an arched stone doorway.

📝 In Action

El abad vive en el monasterio.

A1

The abbot lives in the monastery.

Hablamos con el abad sobre la historia de la iglesia.

B1

We spoke with the abbot about the history of the church.

El abad ejercía una gran influencia política en la región durante la Edad Media.

C1

The abbot exercised great political influence in the region during the Middle Ages.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • monje (monk)
  • novicio (novice)

Common Collocations

  • el abad del monasterio – the abbot of the monastery
  • nombrar un abad – to appoint an abbot

Idioms & Expressions

  • Cara de abad – Someone who looks healthy, well-fed, and prosperous.

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "abad" in Spanish:

abbot→superior→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: abad

Question 1 of 3

What is the primary role of an 'abad'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
abadía(abbey) — Noun
abadessa(abbess) — Noun
abacial(abbatial (related to an abbot)) — Adjective
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

From the Latin word 'abbas,' which came from the Greek 'abbase.' Both roots trace back to the Aramaic word 'abba,' which means 'father.'

First recorded: 10th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: abbotFrench: abbéItalian: abate

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is an 'abad' the same as a priest?

Not exactly. While an abbot is usually an ordained priest, the word 'abad' specifically refers to his job as the 'boss' or leader of a monastery.

Is 'abad' a common last name?

Yes, 'Abad' is a fairly common surname in Spain and some Latin American countries, similar to how 'Abbot' is a surname in English.

Do people still use this word today?

Yes, but mostly in religious circles or when talking about history. You wouldn't use it to describe a leader of a normal business or group.