nave

[ neyv ]

noun

1. the principal longitudinal area of a church, extending from the main entrance or narthex to the chancel, usually flanked by aisles of less height and breadth: generally used only by the congregation.

nave

¹

/ neɪv /

noun

1. the central space in a church, extending from the narthex to the chancel and often flanked by aisles

nave

²

/ neɪv /

noun

1. the central block or hub of a wheel

Word History and Origins

Origin of nave¹

First recorded in 1665–75; from Medieval Latin nāvis, Latin: “ship”; so called from the resemblance in shape

Word History and Origins

Origin of nave¹

C17: via Medieval Latin from Latin nāvis ship, from the similarity of shape

Origin of nave²

Old English nafu, nafa; related to Old High German naba

Related Words

• heart
• hub
• place