cancellus

[ kan-sel-uhs ]

noun

, Architecture.

, plural can·cel·li [kan-, sel, -ahy, -, sel, -ee].

1. (in an early Christian basilica) one of a row of bars separating the clergy and sometimes the choir from the congregation.
2. (in an ancient Roman basilica) one of a row of bars separating the court personnel from the spectators.
3. cancelli, a screen of such bars.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cancellus¹

< Latin, equivalent to canc ( rī ) grating (plural of cancer, apparently dissimilated form of carcer prison) + -ellus diminutive suffix