n. A monastery or convent of persons of either sex devoted to religion and celibacy, and governed by an abbot or abbess (which see).n. The buildings of a monastery or convent; sometimes, in particular, the house set apart for the residence of the abbot or abbess.n. A church now or formerly attached to a monastery or convent: as, Westminster Abbey.n. In Scotland, the sanctuary formerly afforded by the abbey of Holyrood Palace, as having been a royal residence.n. A name sometimes given to the white poplar, Populus alba.