cloister

Definition

A covered walkway or portico with columns on one side and a wall on the other, typically surrounding a quadrangle in a monastery or cathedral. More broadly, any secluded or enclosed space, or the act of confining oneself away from society.

Example Usage

Monks walked through the cloister during their daily prayer routine.

Origin

From Old French 'cloistre,' derived from Latin 'claustrum' (enclosed space, lock), related to 'claudere' (to close).

Fun Fact

The famous Canterbury Cathedral cloister features delicate fan-vaulting and intricate stonework that took centuries to complete.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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