Antechoir – Definition & Meaning

The term “antechoir” is one that is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but it is a word that has been used in various contexts throughout history. It is a term that has been used in religious settings, musical contexts, and even in architecture. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of antechoir, its origin, and its associations.

Definitions

An antechoir is defined as a space or area in a church or cathedral that is located directly in front of the choir. It is a space that is typically reserved for the clergy, and it is often separated from the rest of the church by a screen or railing. In some cases, the antechoir may also refer to a small chapel or room that is located adjacent to the choir.

Origin

The term antechoir comes from the Latin term “ante-,” which means “before,” and “choir,” which refers to a group of singers. The term was first used in the 14th century, and it was originally used to describe the area in front of the choir where the clergy would stand during religious services.

Meaning in different dictionaries

The meaning of antechoir is relatively consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as a space or area in a church or cathedral that is located directly in front of the choir. Some dictionaries also note that the antechoir is often reserved for the clergy and may be separated from the rest of the church by a screen or railing.

Associations

The antechoir is most commonly associated with religious settings, particularly within the context of the Catholic Church. It is a space that is often used by the clergy during religious services, and it may also be used for private prayer or meditation.
In addition to its religious associations, the term antechoir is also used in musical contexts. In choral music, for example, the antechoir may refer to a group of singers who are positioned in a space that is separate from the main choir.

Synonyms

There are several synonyms for the term antechoir, including:

  • Chancel.
  • Sanctuary.
  • Altar area.
  • Presbytery.

Antonyms

There are no direct antonyms for the term antechoir, as it is a relatively specific term that refers to a particular area within a church or cathedral.

The same root words

The term antechoir is derived from the Latin words “ante-” and “choir.” Other words that are derived from these same root words include:

  • Antechamber.
  • Antecedent.
  • Antedate.
  • Antebellum.

Example Sentences

Here are a few example sentences that use the term antechoir:

  • The bishop led the procession into the antechoir, where he was joined by the other clergy members.
  • The antechoir was adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate wood carvings.
  • The choir and antechoir sang a beautiful rendition of Handel’s Messiah during the Christmas Eve service.
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