Definition

1. Noun:
   • A term of address for a priest, especially in the Roman Catholic or Orthodox Catholic Church: "Padre" is used as a respectful title when speaking to or about a priest.
   • A military chaplain: In armed forces contexts, "padre" is a common, informal term for a chaplain, regardless of their specific religious denomination.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The soldiers went to speak with the padre about their concerns. (The soldiers went to speak with the military chaplain about their concerns.)
  • "Good morning, Padre," she said to the local priest. ("Good morning, Father," she said to the local priest.)

Advanced Usage

• As a form of direct address: The word is often capitalized when used as a title preceding a name or as a direct substitute for a name.
  • Padre Miguel will lead the service. (Father Miguel will lead the service.)
  • Thank you for your guidance, Padre. (Thank you for your guidance, Father.)

Variants and Related Words

• Father: The more standard and formal equivalent title for a priest.
• Chaplain: The formal title for a clergy member serving in an institution like the military, a hospital, or a school.

Synonyms

• Priest: A religious leader authorized to perform sacred rituals.
• Clergyman: A male member of the clergy.
• Minister: A religious leader, often in Protestant churches. (Note: "Padre" is more specific to Catholic/Orthodox or military contexts.)

Related Phrases

• See the padre: An informal military phrase meaning to go talk to the chaplain, often for counsel or confession.
  • After the difficult mission, many soldiers wanted to see the padre.

Noun

1. `Father' is a term of address for priests in some churches (especially the Roman Catholic Church or the Orthodox Catholic Church); `Padre' is frequently used in the military
2. a chaplain in one of the military services