English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word cloister in English

What does cloister mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

cloister

US /ˈklɔɪ.stɚ/
UK /ˈklɔɪ.stɚ/
"cloister" picture

Noun

1.

a covered walk, open gallery, or arcade along the walls of a building, usually a monastery or cathedral, with a row of arches and columns opening onto a courtyard.

Example:
•
The monks walked silently through the ancient cloister.
•
The cathedral's cloister offered a peaceful retreat.
Synonym:
monasteryconventabbeyprioryhermitage
2.

a monastic establishment

Example:
•
He decided to enter the cloister and dedicate his life to prayer.
•
Life within the cloister was strict and disciplined.
Synonym:
monasteryconventabbeyprioryhermitage

Verb

1.

to seclude or shut up in a monastery or convent

Example:
•
She chose to cloister herself away from the world.
•
The old scholar would cloister himself in his study for hours.
Synonym:
secludeisolateconfinesequesterwithdraw
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