What do we call a female religious community member?

The story behind the answer

In medieval Christianity, women who professed lifelong vows and lived in enclosed convents were known as nuns. By contrast, a monk is male; a novice is still in training; and “sister” often refers to women religious in active ministries, while nuns are typically cloistered, focused on prayer and community life.

Convents were more than places of seclusion: they served as hubs of learning, manuscript copying, music, and healthcare. Some abbesses managed large estates and exercised notable authority. Figures like Hildegard of Bingen composed music, explored natural science, and advised rulers—all from within a religious community. During crises like the Black Death, women religious cared for the sick, leaving a lasting imprint on medieval society.