conclavist

noun

con·​clav·​ist

-və̇st

plural -s

: an individual (as an ecclesiastical secretary or a lay servant) who attends a cardinal in a conclave

cardinals who are ill or infirm may have two conclavists

—Arnaldo Cortesi

Word History

Etymology

Italian conclavista, from conclave (from Medieval Latin) + -ista -ist

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now