monknun

Monknun is a term that can refer to a male member of a monastic order who is not ordained as a priest, often referred to as a lay brother. These individuals dedicate their lives to religious service within a monastery but do not take on priestly duties. Their roles can vary widely depending on the specific order and community, but often include manual labor, administration, or other support functions necessary for the monastery's operation. They follow a monastic rule of life, which typically includes prayer, fasting, and communal living.

Alternatively, "monknun" can be a portmanteau word, a combination of "monk" and "nun," used to describe a person who embodies characteristics or fulfills the roles typically associated with both male and female monastics. This usage is less common and may appear in contexts discussing gender fluidity, unconventional religious vocations, or in fictional narratives. In such cases, it highlights an individual who transcends traditional gendered roles within religious life. The specific meaning of "monknun" is therefore highly dependent on the context in which it is used, with the former meaning being more established within religious terminology.