monastery
UK[ˈmɒnəstri]US[ˈmɑːnəsteri]
n
a building or buildings where a community of monks lives and works.
n
a similar residence for a community of nuns (often called a convent).
Morpheme Breakdown
monast
ery
monast
alone, solitary
ery
place for
Etymology
the word 'monastery' traces its lineage to the greek concept of solitary religious life, embodied in the verb 'monazein' meaning 'to live alone'. this was adopted into late latin as 'monasterium', a place for a solitary dweller or monk. the suffix '-ery', of old french origin, was later attached in english to systematically denote a place associated with a specific function or group. thus, the term's evolution perfectly captures its core meaning: a secluded place established for individuals pursuing a communal life of religious solitude.
Analysis
Structure: monast (alone, solitary) + ery (place for)
monast originates from greek 'monazein' (to live alone), via late latin 'monasterium'. ery is an english suffix from old french '-erie', denoting a place or establishment.
Examples
the ancient monastery was perched high in the mountains, away from the bustling world.
he spent a year in silence at a buddhist monastery.
the monastery's scriptorium was famous for its beautifully illuminated manuscripts.