exonarthex

[ ek-soh-nahr-theks ]

noun

1. a covered walk, vestibule, or narthex situated before a narthex; an outer narthex.

Word History and Origins

Origin of exonarthex¹

First recorded in 1840–50; exo- + narthex

Example Sentences

As if to keep the two churches more closely together, they are bound by an exonarthex, which, after running along their western front, returns eastwards along the southern wall of the south church as a closed cloister or gallery.

From Project Gutenberg

The exonarthex has disappeared and the old principal entrance is walled up.

From Project Gutenberg

The exonarthex deserves special attentions on account of its façade.

From Project Gutenberg

The exonarthex is also divided in three bays, separated by transverse arches, and communicates with the inner narthex by three doors and with the outer world by a single door situated in the central bay.

From Project Gutenberg