Definition

1. Noun:
   • The area around the altar of a church, reserved for the clergy and choir: A "chancel" is the part of a church, typically at the eastern end, that contains the altar and the seats for the clergy and choir. It is often separated from the nave (the main body of the church) by steps, a screen, or a railing.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The choir processed into the chancel to begin the service.
  • The beautiful stained-glass windows illuminated the ancient chancel.
  • The restoration project focused on the marble flooring in the chancel.

Advanced Usage

• "To be in the chancel": To be located within or occupying the chancel area.
  • During the ceremony, only the officiants are permitted to be in the chancel.

Variants and Related Words

• Chancel arch (n): The arch that separates the chancel from the nave of a church.
  • The fresco above the chancel arch is a masterpiece.
• Chancel screen (n): A screen, often ornate, that divides the chancel from the nave.
  • The wooden chancel screen was carved in the 15th century.

Synonyms

• Sanctuary: In some church architectures, this can be a synonym for the chancel, especially the area immediately around the altar.
• Presbytery: In some Christian traditions, this term refers to the part of the chancel reserved for the clergy.

Related Phrases

(Note: "Chancel" is a specific architectural term and does not commonly form phrasal verbs or idioms in general English.)

Noun

1. area around the altar of a church for the clergy and choir; often enclosed by a lattice or railing