capellán
/kapeˈʝan/
The English word capellan is translated into Spanish as capellán.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, if you wish to refer to a priest informally, you might instead use padre or padrecito.
How do you pronounce it?
/kapeˈʝan/
Did you know?
- The word capellán shares a root with the English word 'chapel', as both trace back to the Latin word for a 'little cloak' or 'cape'.
- The diminutive capellanito can be used as a term of endearment, but it is often used with a touch of irony or sarcasm to mock someone acting overly pious.
- In some historical Spanish texts, a capellán was not necessarily a priest but a person assigned to maintain a specific chapel or shrine.
Examples in context
- Ese cura siempre tiene palabras sabias para compartir.That priest always has wise words to share.
- El capellán trabaja en el hospital.The chaplain works in the hospital.
- Hablé con el capellán esta mañana.I spoke with the chaplain this morning.
- El capellán dio un sermón muy breve.The chaplain gave a very brief sermon.
Example conversation
María and Javier are talking about a person visiting the local prison.
- María¿Vino el capellán a la prisión?Did the chaplain come to the prison?
- JavierSí, el capellán estuvo allí ayer.Yes, the chaplain was there yesterday.
- MaríaÉl es un buen hombre.He is a good man.
- JavierEs verdad, es muy amable.It is true, he is very kind.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry capellán, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries capellán, CC BY-SA 4.0.
