Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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ABBÉ

Originally an abbot, but more commonly the term applied to a member of the diocesan clergy in French-speaking countries. Eventually abbé came to apply to all who were entitled to similar ecclesiastical dress, which could include clerics not in holy orders and engaged as tutors or in other occupations associated with the church. (Etym. Aramaic abba, father.)