amen corner

American  

noun

Chiefly Midland and Southern U.S.

1. a place in some Protestant churches, usually at one side of the pulpit, occupied by worshipers leading the responsive amens of the congregation.

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amen corner British  

noun

1. the part of a church, usually to one side of the pulpit, occupied by people who lead the responsive amens during the service

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Etymology

Origin of amen corner

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60

Example Sentences

Except — and this is important — she was holding up an amen corner.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2024

You reach into your own pockets — and see, we’ve got the amen corner.

From Time • Jan. 6, 2017

Each Sunday in the amen corner of the Reverend John Hancock's meetinghouse was mustered the well washed and combed brood of Mr. and Mrs. Adams.

From Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great - Volume 03 Little Journeys to the Homes of American Statesmen by Hubbard, Elbert

Look inside and you will find some old mule steward stalled in the amen corner, with his ears laid back at the pulpit or at the other stewards.

From A Circuit Rider's Wife by Harris, Corra

Uncle saw the people in front of him, and he was accustomed to pass right in among the congregation and take his seat in the amen corner.

From The Adventures of Uncle Jeremiah and Family at the Great Fair Their Observations and Triumphs by Stevens, C. M. (Charles McClellan)