frater

1 of 2

noun (1)

fra·​ter

ˈfrātə(r)

plural -s

: a refectory of a monastery

frater

2 of 2

noun (2)

fra·​ter

ˈfrä|tə(r),

-rā|,

|tə-

plural -s

1

: a member of certain religious orders (as the Benedictine order) who is studying for the priesthood

—often used as a title or form of address especially among members of the same or similar orders

2

a

: a fraternity brother

b

: a brother Freemason in certain Masonic orders

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Middle English fraytour, frater, from Old French fraitur, short for Old French refraitur, refaitur, from Medieval Latin refectorium

Noun (2)

Medieval Latin, from Latin, brother

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for frater

• cater
• crater
• freighter
• gator
• grater
• greater
• hater
• krater
• later
• plater
• prater
• rater