DictionarypadreReligious minister
noun

padre

A priest or chaplain.

The padre visits the soldiers.

Etymology

The Spanish word means father and is used as a respectful title for a priest. English adopted the religious title, especially for a chaplain.

More examples

  • They invited the padre to lead the service.
  • The hospital's padre spoke with the family.
  • A sailor sought advice from the padre.

Forms

padre · padres

Similar words

chaplain
Specifies a religious role serving an institution or group.
priest
The ordinary clergy title rather than the informal address.