narthex

Definition

A western vestibule leading to the nave in some Christian churches.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek νάρθηξ (nárthēx, “giant fennel”), later ‘casket’ (modern Greek νάρθηκας (nárthikas)), a Pre-Greek word, as suggested by the suffix. See also νάρδος (nárdos, “nard”).

Example Sentences

• "we were in the antechamber, called the narthex, which runs across the front of any Byzantine church [...]."
• "One of these was Cardinal Jacopo Stefaneschi, [...] who had now conceived ambitious plans for paintings to decorate the entire narthex, or entrance porch, of Avignon's ancient cathedral."
• "“Cinco,” Marco bellowed now, hurrying across the narthex to give him a hearty handshake, which Cinco returned without enthusiasm."