Also written abassi, a bass is

abbatt (ab'at), n. Same as abbot. abbate (ab-ba'te), n.; pl. abbati (-ti). [It., also abate , abbatem , acc. of abbas : see abbot .] A title of honor, now given to ecclesiastics in Italy not otherwise designated, but formerly applied to all in any way connected with clerical affairs, tribunals, etc., and wearing the ecclesiastical dre . Also spelled abate . An old Abate meek and mild, My friend and teacher when a child. Long fellow , Wayside Inn, 3d Inter. See abbote . n. [F., abattre (see