monkhood: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, literary, historical, religious.
Quick answer
What does “monkhood” mean?
the state, condition, or life of being a monk.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
the state, condition, or life of being a monk.
The collective body or community of monks; monasticism as an institution or system.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Slightly more common in British historical/religious texts due to older monastic traditions.
Connotations
Evokes tradition, asceticism, religious devotion, and historical continuity.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both varieties, mostly found in specialized or literary contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “monkhood” in a Sentence
He entered monkhood.The traditions of monkhood.A life dedicated to monkhood.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in historical, religious studies, or theological contexts discussing monastic institutions.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would sound formal or archaic.
Technical
Used as a precise term in religious anthropology or sociology of religion.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “monkhood”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “monkhood”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “monkhood”
- Using it to refer to the physical hood of a monk's robe (that is a 'cowl').
- Using it as a plural for monks (the plural is 'monks').
- Misspelling as 'monkhood' or 'monk-hood' (standard is one word).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A 'monastery' is the building or community where monks live. 'Monkhood' is the abstract state or condition of being a monk.
No. The equivalent term for a nun is 'nunhood'. 'Monkhood' is specific to male monastics.
No. It is a low-frequency, formal word used primarily in religious, historical, or literary contexts.
'Monasticism' is the broader system, institution, or practice of monastic life. 'Monkhood' can be synonymous but often focuses more on the personal state or condition of an individual monk.
the state, condition, or life of being a monk.
Monkhood is usually formal, literary, historical, religious. in register.
Monkhood: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmʌŋkhʊd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmʌŋkˌhʊd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: MONK + HOOD (like 'childhood') = the 'state of being a monk'.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE IS A PATH/JOURNEY (e.g., 'enter monkhood', 'path of monkhood').
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'monkhood'?