Definitions:

1. A female superior or governess of a nunnery, or convent of nuns, having the same authority over the nuns which the abbots have over the monks. NOUN
   • As the abbess, she offered guidance and counsel to the nuns during their times of need.
2. The female superior or head of a community of nuns in a convent or abbey. NOUN
   • The abbess led the nuns in their daily prayers and managed the affairs of the abbey.

Synonyms:

• mother superior
• prioress
• reverend mother
• superior