abthane

Etymology
There are two etymologies suggested for this word, each peculiar to a different suggested meaning. One is that it is from an English or Scottish form of or Gaelic abdhaiiie, meaning abbacy, hence an officer of the abbot. The other is that it is derived from and, hence an overlord of regional thanes.

Usage notes
The precise meaning of this rank is subject to controversy among antiquarians. Some authors take it to be an officer appointed by the king who is responsible for an entire country and an overlord to regional thanes, a title later replaced by Lord High Steward. Others use it to mean a bailiff or steward of the abbot, analogous to the use of thane as a bailiff or steward of the king.