transept: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Technical (Architecture, Art History, Religion)
Quick answer
What does “transept” mean?
Either of the two shorter arms of a cross-shaped church, crossing the main nave at right angles.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Either of the two shorter arms of a cross-shaped church, crossing the main nave at right angles.
In architectural terms, any large transverse structure crossing the main axis of a building, especially in a basilica or church.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Pronunciation differs slightly.
Connotations
Evokes historical, religious, and architectural heritage equally in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialised in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “transept” in a Sentence
[Church/Cathedral/Building] + has/features + a + [adjective] + transeptThe + transept + [verb: intersects/crosses/extends]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “transept” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- transeptal
American English
- transeptal
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Common in art history, architecture, and religious studies texts describing church layouts.
Everyday
Rare, only when discussing specific church visits or history.
Technical
Precise architectural term for a structural component of a cruciform building.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “transept”
- Misspelling as 'transcept'.
- Using it to refer to any side room or chapel in a church.
- Incorrect pronunciation with stress on the second syllable (/trænˈsept/).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Very rarely. Its primary and almost exclusive use is for cruciform Christian churches and cathedrals. It is a specialised architectural term.
An aisle runs parallel to the main nave or chancel. A transept runs perpendicular (at a right angle) to them, forming the cross shape.
Yes, though it's uncommon. Some large medieval cathedrals have multiple 'transverse' elements, but the classic design features one major crossing with a north and south transept.
Church directions are traditionally given in liturgical orientation, where the altar is at the 'east' end. Therefore, the north transept is on the left when facing the altar, and the south transept is on the right.
Either of the two shorter arms of a cross-shaped church, crossing the main nave at right angles.
Transept is usually formal, technical (architecture, art history, religion) in register.
Transept: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtræn.sept/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtræn.sept/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'TRANsport' going ACROSS a road. A TRANsept goes ACROSS the main part of a church.
Conceptual Metaphor
ARMS OF A CROSS (The transepts are the arms of the church's cruciform shape).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a transept in traditional church architecture?