NARTHEX • DICCIONARIO INGLES.COM • Definition of Narthex

Add this Dictionary
to your website!
See more options...

Listen

noun

Narthex n.

(Bot.) A tall umbelliferous plant (Ferula communis). See Giant fennel, under Fennel.

(Arch.) The portico in front of ancient churches; sometimes, the atrium or outer court surrounded by ambulatories; used, generally, for any vestibule, lobby, or outer porch, leading to the nave of a church.

See images of 'Narthex'

Etymology of 'Narthex'

Collaborative International Dictionary of English 0.48

Share |

"Narthex" Quotes from Famous Books

... Churches in primitive times was derived, in its main features, from the Temple at Jerusalem. Beyond the porch was the narthex, answering to the court of the Gentiles, and appropriated to the unbaptized and to penitents. Beyond the narthex was the nave, answering to the court of the Jews, and appropriated to the body of worshippers. At the upper end of the nave was the choir, answering ...

— A Key to the Knowledge of Church History (Ancient) • John Henry Blunt

Words linked to "Narthex" : portico, hall, basilica, foyer, lobby, entrance hall