friar

noun

fri·​ar ˈfrī(-ə)r 

: a member of a mendicant order

Examples of friar in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The hotel works with a local Franciscan friar from Ravello, Friar Marcus, to introduce interested guests to the chapel, or whisk them on tours of Ravello, his local parish (and the home of Villas Cimbrone and Rufolo). — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

The analysis was specifically requested by the viceroy of New Spain as a test of the friar’s scientific expertise. — ArsTechnica, 2 Oct. 2026

The sanctuary is managed by Augustinian friars and has been a place of pilgrimage since the 15th century. — ABC News, 7 Sep. 2026

The tour guide, a man dressed up as a friar, walks over to the small memorial site. — Sonjirose Chin, Rolling Stone, 2 Sep. 2026

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

Phrases Containing friar

• friar's lantern
• grey friar
• white friar

Rhymes for friar

• acquire
• attire
• bonfire
• campfire
• ceasefire
• conspire
• desire
• enquire
• entire
• greenbrier
• gunfire
• homebuyer

Kids Definition

friar

noun

fri·​ar ˈfrī(-ə)r 

: a member of a Roman Catholic religious order for men