Definition

1. Noun:
   • The superior of a group of nuns: A "mother superior" is the title for the nun who is the leader or head of a religious community of women, such as a convent, abbey, or monastery. She holds the highest authority within that specific community.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The decision must be approved by the mother superior.
  • Sister Margaret was elected mother superior of the convent.
  • The mother superior oversees the daily operations and spiritual life of the sisters.

Advanced Usage

• "Reverend Mother": This is a formal and respectful form of address often used when speaking to or about a mother superior.
  • The sisters brought their concerns to the Reverend Mother.

Variants and Related Words

• Superior (noun): A general term for the head of a religious community. "Mother superior" is a specific type of superior for a female community.
• Abbess (noun): The female superior of an abbey of nuns. This is a more specific title, often used in certain religious orders.
• Prioress (noun): The female superior of a priory, which is a smaller religious house, or a nun ranking next below an abbess.

Synonyms

• Abbess
• Prioress
• Superior (in a religious context)

Notes on Meaning

• The term "mother superior" specifically refers to the head of a of nuns. It is an official title and role within the structure of a religious order.
• It is a compound noun. The word "superior" here is used as a noun meaning "one in authority," and "mother" is an honorific title denoting spiritual care and leadership.

Noun

1. the superior of a group of nuns