pew

Definition

One of the long benches in a church, seating several persons, usually fixed to the floor and facing the chancel.

Etymology

From Middle English pewe, from Old French puiee, puïe (“balustrade, balcony”), from Latin podia, plural of podium (“parapet, podium”), from Ancient Greek πόδιον (pódion, “little foot”), from πούς (poús, “foot”). Doublet of podia.

Example Sentences

• "In many churches some pews are reserved for either clerical or liturgical officials such as canons, or for prominent families."
• "The pews are filling up, notably with young people, Gen Z's attendance at church has quadrupled in recent years—from a small base, but the significance lies more in the direction of travel."
• "I think a lot of Americans are actually searching for a church that’s relatively apolitical in the pulpit and the pews."