narthex Archæol.
(ˈnɑːθɛks)
[a. Gr. νάρθηξ, properly the name of a tall umbelliferous plant with a hollow stalk; also, a small case or casket for unguents, etc.; and in later use applied as in def. The synonymous L. ferula was used in the same sense (Du Cange).]
A vestibule or portico stretching across the western end of some early Christian churches or basilicas, divided from the nave by a wall, screen, or railing, and set apart for the use of women, catechumens, penitents or other persons; an ante-nave.
| 1673 Cave Prim. Chr. i. vi. 123 The Narthex..was that part of the church that lay next to the great door. 1723 Bingham Antiq. Ch. (1838) II. 401 This [πρόναος] in the modern Greek rituals is always called the Narthex, and is peculiarly allotted to the monks or women [etc.]. 1788 Gibbon Decl. & F. xl. IV. 93 From the sanctuary in the east to the nine western doors..and from thence into the narthex or exterior portico. 1846 R. Hart Eccl. Rec. (ed. 2) 225 In the primitive church there was also a Narthex or ante-nave to the west. 1869 H. F. Tozer Highl. Turkey I. 79 These narthexes..seem originally to have been intended for catechumens and penitents. 1894 Baring-Gould Deserts S. France I. 251 A church that consists of a narthex or vestibule, and a nave with three aisles. |