friar
Friar (noun) means a man belonging to certain Christian religious orders, such as the Franciscans or Dominicans, who often lives among the public rather than in seclusion. Example: “The friar walked into town to beg for food and preach to the villagers.”
How to use friar
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA member of a Christian religious order, similar to a monk but typically more involved in everyday community life.
A friar isn't exactly the same as a monk — monks usually live apart from society in a monastery, while friars traditionally travel and work among ordinary people.
Word forms
friars plural, Friars plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ walked into town to beg for food and preach to the villagers.
Etymology
From Old French frere, "brother," ultimately from Latin frater.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for friar
See all rhymes for friar →Frequently asked questions
What does “friar” mean?
The word “friar” means a man belonging to certain Christian religious orders, such as the Franciscans or Dominicans, who often lives among the public rather than in seclusion. In plain terms, a member of a Christian religious order, similar to a monk but typically more involved in everyday community life.
How do you pronounce “friar”?
“Friar” is pronounced FREYE-uh (/ˈfɹaɪɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “friar” in a sentence?
Here is “friar” used in a sentence: “The friar walked into town to beg for food and preach to the villagers.”
What part of speech is “friar”?
“Friar” is a noun.
Where does the word “friar” come from?
The word “friar” comes from Latin. From Old French frere, "brother," ultimately from Latin frater.
Is “friar” a common word?
“Friar” is an uncommon word in modern English.