monastery
MON-uh-ster-ee
/ˈmɒn.ə.stri/
A building or complex of buildings comprising the domestic quarters and workplaces of monastics, such as monks or nuns.
Typically refers to a secluded place where a community of monks lives under religious vows, focusing on isolation, work, and prayer.
The story behind the word. Monastery comes from the Greek monasterion, which derives from monazein, meaning to live alone. This is built on the root monos, meaning alone. Originally, a monastery was a place where a single hermit lived in complete isolation, but over time, it came to describe the communal homes of monks who live separated from the rest of society.
Word relationships
- abbey: An abbey is a specific type of large monastery governed by an abbot or abbess.
- convent: A religious residence, typically for a community of nuns, whereas monastery historically referred to monks (though it can be gender-neutral).
Commonly confused with
- cathedral: A cathedral is a large, public city church that serves as the seat of a bishop, while a monastery is a secluded residence for monks.
Word family
- monastic (adjective): Relating to monks, nuns, or monasteries; simple and secluded.
- monasticism (noun): The religious way of life in which one renounces worldly pursuits to devote oneself fully to spiritual work.
Collocations
- buddhist monastery
- medieval monastery
- monastery walls
- secluded monastery
Example sentences
- "The medieval monastery was famous for its beautifully preserved library and peaceful herb garden." Describing a historic building in Europe.
- "He spent three months at a Buddhist monastery in the mountains, learning the art of meditation." Describing a Buddhist retreat.
Memory hook
A monastery is a place where monks live, and 'mon-' means single or alone. A secluded home for monks.
When not to use
Do not confuse with a 'convent' (which specifically refers to a community of nuns in some Christian traditions, though monastery can technically cover both) or a simple church.
Fun facts
- During the Middle Ages in Europe, monasteries were the primary centers of literacy, science, and book production, as monks painstakingly copied manuscripts by hand.
Related words
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