chaplain

noun

chap·​lain ˈcha-plən How to pronounce chaplain (audio)
1
: a clergyperson in charge of a chapel
2
: a clergyperson officially attached to a branch of the military, to an institution, or to a family or court
3
: a person chosen to conduct religious exercises (as at a meeting of a club or society)
4
: a clergyperson appointed to assist a bishop (as at a liturgical function)
chaplaincy noun

Examples of chaplain in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
So a chaplain offers a blessing at the hotel venue, that Nabella may grow in wisdom, knowledge and grace, with love and faithfulness for her family and friends. Imani Cruzen, Twin Cities, 6 July 2025 According to the American Legion, the origins of the triangular fold are unknown, but some sources attribute it to the Gold Star Mothers of America, or a chaplain stationed at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 14 June 2025 This isn’t to say that chaplains don’t have a role to play in improving student health and well-being. Cornelia Powers, The Atlantic, 18 May 2025 The district’s policy, adopted in 2019, specifies that meeting agendas must contain a disclaimer that states the prayer is the chaplain’s own beliefs and does not represent that of the board and that no attendee is required to participate. Nora O’Neill, Charlotte Observer, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for chaplain

Word History

Etymology

Middle English chapelein, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin cappellanus, from cappella

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of chaplain was in the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chaplain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chaplain. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

chaplain

noun
chap·​lain ˈchap-lən How to pronounce chaplain (audio)
1
: a member of the clergy officially attached to a special group (as the army)
2
: a person chosen to conduct religious exercises (as for a club)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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