nar·thex

[nahr-theks]
noun Architecture.
an enclosed passage between the main entrance and the nave of a church.

Origin:
1665–75; < Late Greek nárthēx, Greek: giant fennel

nar·the·cal [nahr-thee-kuhl] , adjective
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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
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World English Dictionary
narthex (ˈnɑːθɛks) [Click for IPA pronunciation guide]
 
n
1.  a portico at the west end of a basilica or church, esp one that is at right angles to the nave
2.  a rectangular entrance hall between the porch and nave of a church
 
[C17: via Latin from Medieval Greek: enclosed porch, enclosure (earlier: box), from Greek narthēx giant fennel, the stems of which were used to make boxes]

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
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00:10
Narthex is always a great word to know.
So is lollapalooza. Does it mean:
a calculus or concretion found in the stomach or intestines of certain animals, esp. ruminants, formerly reputed to be an effective remedy for poison.
an extraordinary or unusual thing, person, or event; an exceptional example or instance.
Etymonline
Word Origin & History

narthex
"porch at the end of early churches" (used by penitents not admitted to the body of the church), 1673, from Late Gk. narthex, from Gk. narthex "giant fennel," of unknown origin. The architectural feature so called from fancied resemblance of porch to a hollow stem. The word also was used in Gk. to mean
"a small case for unguents, etc."
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper
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Example sentences
The purpose of this revised site plan is to add a narthex and columbarium to
  the existing sanctuary.
The original narthex and belfry have been rebuilt within the last ten years,
  constructed of reinforced concrete and plastered.
The narthex and present vestry also date from this renovation.
The chapel is entered through the narthex which contains a narrow stair to the
  rear gallery.
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