nave
UK: neɪv | US: neɪv
n. 1. The central part of a church, extending from the entrance to the chancel and flanked by aisles.
n. 2. (Archaic) The hub of a wheel.
The word "nave" derives from the Latin navis (ship), metaphorically likening the central space of a church to the hull of a ship—a symbolic vessel carrying congregants. The archaic sense ("hub of a wheel") stems from the same Latin root, as the hub resembles a ship's central structure. Over time, the ecclesiastical meaning became dominant in English, while the mechanical sense faded.
The sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows into the nave.
Medieval churches often featured towering naves to inspire awe.
The architect emphasized the nave's acoustics for choral performances.
(Archaic) The wooden nave of the cart wheel was intricately carved.
Visitors paused at the entrance to admire the nave's vaulted ceiling.