ˈchaplə̇n noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English chapeleyn, from Old French chapelain, from Medieval Latin cappellanus chaplain, secretary of a king or noble, custodian of sacred relics, from cappella chapel, short cloak — more at chapel
1.
a. : a clergyman appointed to officiate in a chapel
b. : a Church of England clergyman without a title or benefice in the place where he officiates who performs religious services in a chapel, cathedral, or collegiate church
2. : a clergyman officially attached to the army or navy, to some public institution, or to a family or court
3. : any person chosen to conduct religious exercises (as for a society)