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Nun Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nun

[nʌn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

religious

A woman who is a member of a religious community and has taken vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Synonyms

friar, monk, sister.

Examples of usage

  • The nun spent her days praying and helping the poor in the community.
  • The convent was home to several nuns who dedicated their lives to serving others.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A woman who is a member of a religious community but has not taken vows.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to become a nun after spending time volunteering at the local church.
  • The nuns at the monastery led a life of prayer and service.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The first recorded nuns are believed to have existed in the 4th century in communities following the teachings of early Christian leaders.
  • Nuns were some of the first women to gain education and power in society, often running schools and hospitals during the Middle Ages.

Cultural Impact

  • Nuns have been portrayed in movies and books, including the famous film 'The Sound of Music,' showcasing their caring and strict nature.
  • The image of a nun has appeared in various art forms throughout history, often symbolizing charity, piety, and compassion.

Religious Significance

  • Nuns take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, dedicating their lives to spiritual work and community service.
  • Different religions have their own forms of nuns, including Buddhism and Hinduism, each with unique practices and roles.

Modern Context

  • Today, many nuns engage in social justice work, advocating for the rights of the poor, marginalized, and oppressed.
  • Modern nuns often lead diverse lives and utilize technology to spread their mission and connect with younger generations.

Origin of 'nun'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'nun' comes from the Latin 'nonna,' which means 'a nun or a caretaker of the family.'
  • In Hebrew, 'nun' also refers to a letter in the alphabet and means 'fish,' symbolizing life and growth.

The word 'nun' has its origins in Old English 'nunne', which comes from Late Latin 'nonna', meaning 'nun'. Nuns have played a significant role in various religious traditions throughout history, dedicating their lives to prayer, service, and spiritual growth. The concept of nuns dates back centuries, with examples found in Christianity, Buddhism, and other religions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,660, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.