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Definition of exonarthex
exonarthex
/ˌɛksoʊˈnɑːrθɛks/
ex · o · nar · thex
Plural:exonarthexes
exonarthex Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
13
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
An outer vestibule or portico situated outside the main inner vestibule of an early Christian or Byzantine church, serving as a transitional entrance area.
Example
"The stunning mosaics adorning the exonarthex of the Chora Church offer visitors their first glimpse of the building's interior splendor."
Synonyms
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In Byzantine architecture, the exonarthex is strictly distinguished from the esonarthex, which is the inner vestibule directly adjoining the nave.
• Rhymes for exonarthex
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from the Greek prefix 'exo-' meaning 'outside' and 'narthex', a term originally referring to the giant fennel plant but later used to describe the portico of an early Christian or Byzantine church.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Exonarthex. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/exonarthex