transept

[ tran-sept ]

noun

, Architecture.

1. any major transverse part of the body of a church, usually crossing the nave, at right angles, at the entrance to the choir.
2. an arm of this, on either side of the central aisle of a church.

transept

/ ˈtrænsɛpt /

noun

1. either of the two wings of a cruciform church at right angles to the nave

Derived Forms

• tranˈseptal, adjective

Other Words From

• tran·septal adjective
• tran·septal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of transept¹

From the Anglo-Latin word trānseptum, dating back to 1530–40. See trans-, septum

Word History and Origins

Origin of transept¹

C16: from Anglo-Latin transeptum , from Latin trans- + saeptum enclosure

Example Sentences

Passing round the south face of the transept, we come to the apsidal chapel attached to its eastern wall.

From Project Gutenberg

The Nave has seven bays, to the east of which is the transept, and beyond it the choir, which has three bays.

From Project Gutenberg

On the east side of the north arm of the transept a more elaborate arrangement of one of the arches may be seen.

From Project Gutenberg

The arch at the east end of the triforium on the south side, which opens out to the transept, is worthy of special notice.

From Project Gutenberg

At each end of the transept there are circular lights of condensed though pleasant proportions.

From Project Gutenberg