Synonyms for

Monks

Verb / mʌŋks / Another word for monks — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Monks are members of a religious community of men who live in a monastery and devote themselves to prayer, contemplation, and work.

Synonyms & similar words

monk theloniousspheremonk theloniousmonk monastic friars abbots brothers cenobites hermits ascetics solitaries recluses anchorites mendicants clerics priests preachers pastors evangelists missionaries prophets seers saints

Synonyms by register

Formal

ascetics friars brothers hermits

Informal

monksy holy rollers devotees

Literary

anchorites cenobites recluses

Antonyms

laypeople secularists hedonists worldlings pleasure-seekers non-ascetics

Common collocations

  • Buddhist monks
  • Tibetan monks
  • monks in a monastery
  • shaved monks
  • monks chant
  • ancient monks
  • monks live

Word family

noun monk
adjective monastic

Usage note

While 'monk' generally refers to a male member of a religious community, the term can sometimes be used more broadly for any solitary or ascetic person. The adjective 'monastic' is commonly used to describe a lifestyle or setting associated with monks.

Example sentences

  1. The monks were chanting in the chapel.
  2. The monks brewed their own beer in the monastery.
  3. The monks spent hours copying manuscripts by hand.
  4. The monks took a vow of silence.
  5. The monks wore brown robes and sandals.

Quotes

  • The true monk is one who has kept the freshness of the beginners mind.
  • The monk who grows in wisdom is the one who is content with the simplicity of life.
  • The wise monk is one who knows how to balance work and prayer.

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