Dictionary

exonarthex en · NOUN

Etymology

Etymology tree Ancient Greek ἐκ (ek) Ancient Greek ἔξω (éxō)der. English exo- English narthex English exonarthex From exo- + narthex.

Meanings

1. The space anterior to the narthex of a church, sometimes roofed-over as with a porch, but more often an enclosed courtyard; in antiquity, the courtyard where catechumens were permitted to be close to the Eucharist, but forbidden to see it celebrated.
   • The exonarthex is of inferior workmanship, and has been thought by some of later date than the rest of the church; but there seems no ground for this belief. 1850, John Mason Neale, A History of the Holy Eastern Church: The Patriarchate of Alexandria:

Forms

Coordinates

esonarthex