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cella

 - 2 dictionary results

cel⋅la

  [sel-uh]
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–noun, plural cel⋅lae  [sel-ee] . Architecture.
1. the principal enclosed chamber of a classical temple.
2. the entire central structure of a classical temple.
Also called naos.

Origin:
1670–80; < L: storeroom, shrine, akin to cēlāre to hide; see conceal
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
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cel·la   (sěl'ə)   
n.   pl. cel·lae (sěl'ē) In both senses also called naos.

  1. The inner room or sanctuary of an ancient Greek or Roman temple, in which the statue of the god was situated.

  2. In Byzantine architecture, the area of a centrally planned church in which the liturgy is performed.


[Latin; see kel-1 in Indo-European roots.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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