refectory

[ri-fek-tuh-ree]

noun

plural

refectories 

1. a dining hall in a religious house, a college, or other institution.

refectory

/ rɪˈfɛktərɪ, -trɪ /

noun

1. a communal dining hall in a religious, academic, or other institution

Word History and Origins

Origin of refectory¹

1475–85; < Late Latin refectōrium, equivalent to Latin refec-, combining form of reficere to renew ( refect ) + -tōrium -tory ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of refectory¹

C15: from Late Latin refectōrium , from Latin refectus refreshed

Example Sentences

A church and a refectory were battered during more strikes in early May.

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Thus admonished, we made our way to the refectory, expecting a small meal at best, perhaps a plain broth and dry bread.

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The refectory was a great, low-ceiled, gloomy room; on two long tables smoked basins of something hot, which, however, to my dismay, sent forth an odour far from inviting.

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Access to the masterpiece housed inside the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie resumed Tuesday after the second closure of the pandemic, starting in November and the fall virus resurgence.

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A wine cellar was carved out below, and a modest refectory vaulted above it.

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Related Words

• amphitheater 
• arena 
• auditorium 
• ballroom 
• chamber 
• church 
• gallery 
• gym 
• gymnasium 
• lounge 
• theater