How to Say "Chaplain" in Spanish

capellán

/kapeˈʝan/masculine

The English word 'chaplain' is translated into Spanish as capellán.

The term refers to a member of a religious body.

Meaning: member of a religious body (noun)

Is it said differently in some regions?

In Argentina, the term asistente espiritual is used to refer to a chaplain or spiritual assistant.

The masculine form is capellán. To refer to a female chaplain, use capellana. The plural form of capellán is capellanes.

/kapeˈʝan/

The word capellán shares an ancient root with the English word 'chapel', as both trace back to the idea of a small cloak or 'cappa' used to house sacred relics.
In many Spanish-speaking military contexts, the capellán holds a rank equivalent to an officer, though they do not exercise command over troops.
In certain traditional Spanish contexts, a capellán`s role was distinct from a cura, as the former often lacked the authority to administer certain sacraments without special permission.

Durante su estadía en el hospital, la paciente recibió el apoyo espiritual del capellán.
During her stay in the hospital, the patient received spiritual support from the chaplain.
Los soldados recibieron apoyo del capellán militar antes de la misión de combate.
The soldiers received support from the military chaplain before the combat mission.
El capellán del hospital es muy amable.
The hospital chaplain is very kind.
Hablé con el capellán de la base militar.
I spoke with the chaplain of the military base.
El capellán asistió a la ceremonia oficial.
The chaplain attended the official ceremony.

Elena and Daniel are discussing a local community event.

Daniel

¿Viste al capellán en la iglesia hoy?
Did you see the chaplain at the church today?
Elena

Sí, Daniel, lo vi hace un momento.
Yes, Daniel, I saw him a moment ago.
Daniel

Él parece estar muy ocupado con la gente.
He seems to be very busy with the people.
Elena

Es cierto, tiene mucho trabajo hoy.
That's true, he has a lot of work today.

Sources

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