prete

Prete is the Italian word for a priest, referring to a male member of the Catholic clergy. In everyday Italian, prete is the common term used to denote a priest, while sacerdote is more formal or liturgical. The word is widely used across Italy and in Italian-speaking communities to refer to clergy in ordinary speech as well as in writing.

Etymology and forms: Prete derives from Latin presbyter, through the medieval and modern evolution of Italian. The plural form is preti. The term is strictly masculine in ordinary use; while female terms such as sacerdotessa exist in general language, they are not used to denote ordained women within the Catholic Church.

Usage and distinctions: In ecclesiastical contexts, speakers may distinguish between a diocesano prete (a secular priest) and a religioso prete (a priest belonging to a religious order). The noun conveys a sense of ordinary clerical identity in contrast to higher ranks such as vescovo (bishop) or cardinal.

Surname use: Prete is also an Italian surname and can be found among people of Italian descent in various regions and countries.

In culture: The term frequently appears in Italian literature, journalism, and dialogue to denote a priest, sometimes carrying regional or stylistic nuance.

See also: sacerdote, presbiter, sacerdote diocesano.