Ecclesiastical. A lay member of a convent; a lay brother or sister.

= converse, n.2 2. Obsolete.

A disabled soldier given a place in a monastery; the benefit conferred on such a person, the actual means of maintaining him in such a place.

A person dedicated to monastic or religious life or work, spec. a member of an order which does not require solemn vows; (also) a lay person who is…

Name given to members or associates of certain religious orders (see quots.).