Prior (Noun)
Meaning
The head of a religious order; in an abbey the prior is next below the abbot.
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- The prior of the monastery played an important role in guiding the monks in their daily prayers and rituals.
- As next in line to the abbot, the prior was responsible for making key decisions when the abbot was absent.
- Election as prior of the abbey was a great honor, and Brother Thomas was humbled by the trust that had been placed in him.
- The prior and the abbot worked together to ensure the smooth operation of the monastery and its many charitable endeavors.
- After serving as prior for many years, Father Michael was eventually elected as the new abbot of the monastery.