abbess Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the superior of a group of nuns
    mother superior; prioress.

WordNet

Ab"bess noun
Etymology
OF.abaesse, abeesse, F. abbesse, L. abbatissa, fem. of abbas, abbatis, abbot. See Abbot.
Definitions
  1. A female superior or governess of a nunnery, or convent of nuns, having the same authority over the nuns which the abbots have over the monks. See Abbey.

Webster 1913