chaplain
A member of a religious body who is (often, although not always, of the clergy) officially assigned to provide pastoral care at an institution, group, private chapel, etc.
Noun
- A member of a religious body who is (often, although not always, of the clergy) officially assigned to provide pastoral care at an institution, group, private chapel, etc.
- The Railway Mission's regionally based chaplains perform the role of impartial 'friend' to anyone working on the railway, regardless of their faith. - 2021 September 8, Stefanie Foster, “Network News: Countdown is on to...
- A person without religious affiliation who carries out similar duties in a secular context.
Origin
From Middle English chapeleyn, from Old French chapelain, from Medieval Latin, Late Latin cappellānus, from cappella. Doublet of capelin. Displaced Old English handprēost.
Forms
Derived
archchaplain chaplaincy chaplainry chaplainship college chaplain domestic chaplain football chaplain hospital chaplain lay chaplain military chaplain naval chaplain prison chaplain school chaplain sports chaplain street chaplain unchaplained