Definition

A central convent where the leader of a religious community lives and oversees other convents.

Example

The sisters returned to their motherhouse after many years of service in the mission field.

Conversation

Have you ever visited the motherhouse of that convent up the hill?

No, I haven't! What's it like there?

It's really peaceful, and the gardens are beautiful around the motherhouse.

That sounds lovely; I should check it out sometime!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Motherhouse → It is formed from "mother" (from Old English "modor", meaning female parent) and "house" (from Old English "hus", meaning dwelling or shelter). The term "motherhouse" refers to the main house or center of a religious community, often where the mother superior resides.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'female parent' ('mother') and a 'dwelling' ('house') — together, they create a place that serves as the central home for a community.

Visually Confused Words