friar

noun

fri·​ar ˈfrī(-ə)r How to pronounce friar (audio)
Synonyms of friarnext
: a member of a mendicant order

Examples of friar 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.
At the center is a pond with goldfish and turtles surrounded by olive trees, two large palms and a tree laden with bright oranges that the friars use to make marmalade. ABC News, 19 Mar. 2026 Another curveball came from an order of friars. Anna Ortiz, Chicago Tribune, 8 Mar. 2026 Its authors tell in previously unheard detail how Cardinal Robert Prevost, a low-key Augustinian friar from Chicago, had quietly garnered support from fellow cardinals as the conclave got underway but remained under the radar of wider attention as a serious candidate. Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 1 Mar. 2026 The display marks a long saga over the friar’s remains and honors the 800th anniversary of his death. Nicole Winfield, Los Angeles Times, 22 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for friar

Word History

Etymology

Middle English frere, fryer, from Anglo-French frere, friere, fraire literally, brother, from Latin fratr-, frater — more at brother

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of friar was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Friar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/friar. Accessed 30 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

friar

noun
fri·​ar ˈfrī(-ə)r How to pronounce friar (audio)
: a member of a Roman Catholic religious order for men

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