© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

hegumene

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /hɛˈɡjuːmɪn/

KK: /hɛˈɡjuːmɪni/

noun
Definition

A leader or head of a nunnery in the Greek Church, similar to an abbess or prioress in Western Christianity.


Example

The hegumene of the convent organized a retreat for the sisters.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that the head of a nunnery is called a hegumene?
Sloth B
Really? I had no idea!
Sloth A
It's interesting how different cultures have unique titles for their leaders.
Sloth B
Absolutely! I love learning about those kinds of things.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
abbess
prioress
superior
Antonyms
novice
layperson
follower
Root Explanation

The word 'hegumene' originates from Old English, meaning 'a leader' or 'one who leads'.

Memory Tip

Think of a leader guiding others — that's what 'hegumene' refers to.

Visually Confused Words
tegumen
legumen
eumenes
Is this page helpful?