| narthex | 1. <botany> A tall umbelliferous plant (Ferula communis). See Giant fennel, under Fennel. 2. The portico in front of ancient churches; sometimes, the atrium or outer court surrounded by ambulatories; used, generally, for any vestibule, lobby, or outer porch, leading to the nave of a church. Origin: L, giant fennel, Gr. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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