abbey

¹

[ ab-ee ]

noun

, plural ab·beys.

1. a monastery under the supervision of an abbot or a convent under the supervision of an abbess.
2. the group of buildings comprising such a monastery or convent.
3. the church of an abbey.

Abbey

²

[ ab-ee ]

noun

1. Edward, 1927–89, U.S. novelist and nature writer.
2. Edwin Austin, 1852–1911, U.S. painter and illustrator.
3. a first name, form of Abigail.

abbey

/ ˈæbɪ /

noun

1. a building inhabited by a community of monks or nuns governed by an abbot or abbess
2. a church built in conjunction with such a building
3. such a community of monks or nuns

Word History and Origins

Origin of abbey¹

1200–50; Middle English abbey ( e ) < Old French abeie < Late Latin abbātia abbacy

Word History and Origins

Origin of abbey¹

C13: via Old French abeie from Church Latin abbātia abbacy

Example Sentences

After numerous discussions, Neame realized they could take a similar approach as they had with “Downton Abbey,” which originated from the film “Gosford Park.”

From Los Angeles Times

Kensington Palace said the fourth Together At Christmas service will take place at Westminster Abbey on 6 December.

From BBC

The Queen missed the annual opening of the Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey on Thursday, where she was instead represented by the Duchess of Gloucester.

From BBC

She later gave birth to a daughter, Abbey, who was born HIV+ and died at just four months old.

From BBC

Lesley Rushby with her daughter Abbey.

From BBC

Related Words

• nunnery