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Padre Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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padre

[ˈpædreɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

religious title

The term 'padre' is commonly used to refer to a priest in the Catholic Church, especially in Spanish-speaking countries. It denotes a person who is responsible for supervising religious activities and guiding the spiritual lives of their congregation. In addition to its ecclesiastical use, 'padre' can also be used informally to mean 'father' in various contexts. The term evokes a sense of respect and authority within a spiritual framework.

Synonyms

clergyman, father, minister, priest.

Examples of usage

  • The padre led the mass with great devotion.
  • Many families turn to their local padre for spiritual advice.
  • The children approached the padre with their questions about faith.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many Latin American cultures, a padre is a respected individual who often plays a significant role in family and community.
  • The term is common in religious contexts, especially within Catholicism, where a padre leads worship and offers guidance.
  • The word has also been adopted in various military contexts, particularly in reference to chaplains who offer spiritual support.

Literature

  • The character of El Padre is often used in stories to represent moral authority and wisdom.
  • Writers like Gabriel García Márquez have featured padre characters to explore themes of faith, duty, and familial relationships.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'padre' has gained popularity in films and songs that emphasize relationships between fathers and children.
  • In video games, particularly those set in war scenarios, the character of a padre (such as a military chaplain) is frequently portrayed as a source of comfort.

Psychology

  • The concept of a padre can evoke different feelings, often tied to authority, protection, and guidance in personal and communal settings.
  • Research shows that father figures, whether real or symbolic like a padre, play an important role in shaping a child's self-esteem and emotional resilience.

Origin of 'padre'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Padre' comes from the Latin word 'pater', which means father.
  • The term entered into languages like Italian and Spanish from Latin, showing its roots in ancient culture.
  • In Italian, 'padre' also means father, similar to its usage in Spanish.

The word 'padre' originates from the Latin word 'pater,' which means 'father.' Its evolution into the Spanish and Italian languages reflects the deep-rooted connection between paternal figures and religious leaders. In the context of Christianity, particularly within the Catholic Church, the role of the padre has been imbued with significant authority and influence. The use of 'padre' as a title for priests became more widespread as the influence of the Catholic Church grew throughout the Spanish-speaking world. Over time, the term has also been adopted in various military contexts, particularly in the U.S. Armed Forces, where it is used to refer to chaplains. This reflects the broader use of the term in contexts that evoke a sense of guidance and mentorship.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,775, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.