Abuna

or a·bu·na

[ uh-boo-nuh ]

noun

1. the title of the chief bishop of the Ethiopian Church.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Abuna¹

From Arabic, equivalent to abū “father” + -nā “our”

Example Sentences

Some analysts say the patriarch, Abuna Mathias, has not been on good terms with the authorities since speaking out about the war in Tigray, controversially saying that a genocide was being committed there.

From BBC

"Truly speaking, this year, we Ethiopians are not celebrating the festival in full happiness," said Archbishop Abuna Markos, resplendent in a white robe with gold trim and embroidered silver crosses and blue floral designs.

From Reuters

Churches such as Abuna Yemata Guh and similar religious sites around the world are part of the global human heritage whose preservation and well-being should be the concern of all nations.

From Washington Post

“Abuna Semawi, nashkurak,” the pastor began in Arabic.

From Washington Post

In an online video, the priest, who was nicknamed “Abuna Paolo” by Syrians, told locals: “God willing, Raqqa will be the first capital of free Syria.”

From Newsweek