An abbey (from Latin abbatia, derived from Latin language abbatia, from Latin abbās, derived from Aramaic language abba, "father") is a Catholic monastery or convent, under the authority of an Abbot or an Abbess, who serves as the spiritual father or mother of the community.

The term can also refer to an establishment which has long ceased to function as an abbey, in some cases for centuries (for example, see Westminster Abbey below).