monk

[mʌŋk]

monk Definition

  • 1a member of a religious community of men typically living under vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
  • 2a man who is a member of a brotherhood living in a monastery and devoted to a discipline prescribed by his order
  • 3a man who is a member of a religious order but who lives outside a monastery or convent

Using monk: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "monk" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He became a monk after graduating from college.

  • Example

    The monks spent their days in prayer and meditation.

  • Example

    The monastery was home to a community of Benedictine monks.

  • Example

    The monk took a vow of silence.

monk Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for monk

Antonyms for monk

Phrases with monk

  • monk's robe

    a long, loose garment worn by a monk

    Example

    The monk's robe was made of rough woolen cloth.

  • monk's cell

    a small room in a monastery where a monk lives

    Example

    The monk's cell was sparsely furnished with a bed, a desk, and a chair.

  • monk's tonsure

    a hairstyle worn by monks, consisting of a shaved crown and a ring of hair around the head

    Example

    The monk's tonsure was a symbol of his devotion to God.

Origins of monk

from Old English 'munuc', from Late Latin 'monachus', from Greek 'monakhos', from 'monos' meaning 'alone'

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Summary: monk in Brief

A 'monk' [mʌŋk] is a member of a religious community of men who live under vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. They may live in a monastery or outside it, and devote themselves to a prescribed discipline. The term extends to phrases like 'monk's robe,' 'monk's cell,' and 'monk's tonsure,' which denote specific aspects of monastic life.

How do native speakers use this expression?