transept

[ tran-sept ]

noun

, Architecture.

1. any major transverse part of the body of a church, usually crossing the nave, at right angles, at the entrance to the choir.
2. an arm of this, on either side of the central aisle of a church.

transept

/ ˈtrænsɛpt /

noun

1. either of the two wings of a cruciform church at right angles to the nave

Derived Forms

• tranˈseptal, adjective

Other Words From

• tran·septal adjective
• tran·septal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of transept¹

From the Anglo-Latin word trānseptum, dating back to 1530–40. See trans-, septum

Word History and Origins

Origin of transept¹

C16: from Anglo-Latin transeptum , from Latin trans- + saeptum enclosure

Example Sentences

Scientists say they are nearly certain a lead coffin found beneath the transept is that of Joachim du Bellay, who died in Paris in 1560 at the age of about 37.

From BBC

Cashore spelled it correctly, then clinched the title with the word “transept,” an architectural term for the transverse part of a cross-shaped church.

From Seattle Times

It was only possible to complete the apse, choir and transepts.

From BBC

“Men and women among the 4,000 who jammed the huge nave and transept, choir lofts, chapels, doorways and the steps outside wept openly,” the Times reported.

From Washington Post

Outside, Villeneuve rattled off a list of project milestones: “The galleries are finished, the north and south transept done.”

From Washington Post