transept

tran·sept

noun \ˈtran(t)-ˌsept\

Definition of TRANSEPT

: the part of a cruciform church that crosses at right angles to the greatest length between the nave and the apse or choir; also : either of the projecting ends of a transept

— tran·sep·tal \tran(t)-ˈsep-t^əl\ adjective

Origin of TRANSEPT

New Latin transeptum, from Latin trans- + septum, saeptum enclosure, wall

First Known Use: circa 1542

Rhymes with TRANSEPT

accept, adept, backswept, concept, except, inept, percept, precept, upswept, windswept

transept

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Area of a cruciform (cross-shaped) church lying at right angles to the principal axis. The bay at which the transept intersects the nave is called the crossing. The nave of a church with a cruciform plan usually extends west from the crossing, the choir and sanctuary east. The arms of the transept are designated by direction, as northern transept and southern transept.