[1] : The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

narthex \nar"thex\, n. l., giant fennel, gr. na`rqhx.
   1. bot. a tall umbelliferous plant ferula communis. see
      giant fennel, under fennel.
      1913 webster

   2. arch. the portico in front of ancient churches;
      sometimes, the atrium or outer court surrounded by
      ambulatories; -- used, generally, for any vestibule,
      lobby, or outer porch, leading to the nave of a church.
      1913 webster
see also:
ferula communis giant fennel fennel 

[2] : WordNet (r) 2.0

narthex
     n 1: portico at the west end of an early christian basilica or
          church
     2: a vestibule leading to the nave of a church

Narthex >> N Words
Narthex, definition of term: Narthex
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