adytum

[ ad-i-tuhm ]

noun

, plural ad·y·ta [ad, -i-t, uh].

1. (in ancient worship) a sacred place that the public was forbidden to enter; an inner shrine.
2. the most sacred or reserved part of any place of worship.

adytum

/ ˈædɪtəm /

noun

1. the most sacred place of worship in an ancient temple from which the laity was prohibited

Word History and Origins

Origin of adytum¹

1665–75; < Latin < Greek ádyton (place) not to be entered, equivalent to a- a- ⁶ + -dyton, neuter of -dytos, verbid of dýein to enter

Word History and Origins

Origin of adytum¹

C17: Latin, from Greek aduton a place not to be entered, from a- ¹+ duein to enter

Example Sentences

Adytum, ad′i-tum, n. the most sacred part of a heathen temple: the chancel of a church:—pl.

From Project Gutenberg

The adytum itself consists of three apartments, entirely of granite.

From Project Gutenberg

Behind the adytum are small rooms for the priests who served in the temple.

From Project Gutenberg

All the old temples had an adytum, sanctuary, or holy of holies—a place not open to the profane, but protected by rigid taboos.

From Project Gutenberg

Author's hospitable reception there, and admission to the adytum, 119.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• haven
• hideaway
• refuge
• resort
• sanctuary
• shelter