Meaning of "narthex" in English

The term "narthex" refers to an architectural element found at the entrance of a church. It is a distinct area located between the main entrance and the nave, often serving as a gathering or transition space for congregants. Historically, narthexes were used by catechumens and penitents before entering the main body of the church. In modern contexts, the narthex may serve as a reception area where church bulletins are distributed or announcements are made. Its design can vary significantly, ranging from simple enclosed spaces to more elaborate atriums with detailed architectural features.

Meaning of "narthex" in French

In French, the word "narthex" carries the same architectural significance as in English, referring to the entrance or lobby area of a church building. This space, traditionally employed for transitional purposes, can be found between the church's main doors and the nave. The narthex historically served as a sanctuary for those not yet admitted to the church’s full rites. In contemporary France, the narthex remains a significant feature in church design, often utilized for community interactions before and after services, reflecting its role as a bridge between the secular and the sacred space of worship.

Pronunciation of "narthex" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈnɑːr.θɛks/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "narthex" is generally consistent across English-speaking regions, though slight variations may occur in terms of emphasis and vowel sounds, particularly between British and American English. The British pronunciation might slightly soften the 'r' sound compared to its American counterpart.

Pronunciation of "narthex" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /naʁ.tɛks/

Pronunciation Variations: In French, the pronunciation of "narthex" remains fairly uniform across regions. However, subtle distinctions may arise in the articulation of the 'r' sound due to regional accents, such as the back-of-the-throat 'r' commonly used in standard French diction.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The narthex serves as a welcoming area for visitors before they enter the main church. (Le narthex sert de lieu d'accueil pour les visiteurs avant d'entrer dans l'église principale.)

  2. Many churches use the narthex for distributing service bulletins. (De nombreuses églises utilisent le narthex pour distribuer des bulletins de service.)

  3. This church features a beautifully decorated narthex. (Cette église dispose d'un narthex magnifiquement décoré.)

  4. The choir gathered in the narthex before the service began. (Le chœur s'est rassemblé dans le narthex avant le début du service.)

  5. Visitors paused in the narthex to admire the stained-glass windows. (Les visiteurs se sont arrêtés dans le narthex pour admirer les vitraux.)

  6. The church’s narthex was recently renovated to include more seating. (Le narthex de l'église a récemment été rénové pour inclure plus de sièges.)

  7. During renovations, the narthex was expanded to accommodate more people. (Lors des rénovations, le narthex a été agrandi pour accueillir plus de personnes.)

  8. The priest greeted parishioners in the narthex after mass. (Le prêtre a salué les paroissiens dans le narthex après la messe.)

  9. A small library was established in the narthex for community use. (Une petite bibliothèque a été créée dans le narthex pour l'utilisation de la communauté.)

  10. The historical significance of the narthex can be seen in its intricate carvings. (L'importance historique du narthex se voit dans ses sculptures complexes.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "narthex" in English

Synonyms: vestibule, foyer, lobby, entrance, porch.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: atrium, hall, reception, portal, passage.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "narthex" in French

Synonyms: vestibule, hall, entrée, porche.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: atrium, passage, réceptacle, portail, allée.

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