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nave

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /neɪv/

KK: /neɪv/

noun
Definition

The central area of a church, usually between the entrance and the altar, where the congregation sits. It can also refer to the hub of a wheel.


Example

The church's nave was beautifully decorated for the wedding ceremony.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever been inside a church and noticed the beautiful nave?
Sloth B
Yes, I love how spacious and inviting it feels.
Sloth A
Right? The nave really creates a sense of peace and calm.
Sloth B
Absolutely, it's one of my favorite parts of visiting a church.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
aisle
hub
center
Antonyms
periphery
edge
margin
Root Explanation

**Nave** → The word 'nave' originates from Latin 'navis' (meaning ship or boat). It refers to the central part of a church, which is often likened to the hull of a ship, symbolizing the church as a vessel for the faithful.

Memory Tip

Imagine a ship ('navis') as the central part of a church, which helps you remember that 'nave' refers to that central area.

Visually Confused Words
njave
naive
knave
nae
ave
unpave
unhave
uncave
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