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Definition of exonarthex

exonarthex

/ˌɛksoʊˈnɑːrθɛks/
ex · o · nar · thex
Plural:exonarthexes
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exonarthex Lexical Profile

• 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
View all synonyms for exonarthex
Antonyms
View all antonyms for exonarthex

Word Nuance & Usage

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

exlex
exochorda
exodus
exonarthex
exonerate
exoneration
exonerative

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 Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/exonarthex
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