Meaning & Definition of word "Nunnery"

Nunnery

/ˈnʌnəri/

noun:

  • 1. A convent inhabited by nuns.
    • Example: The old nunnery on the hill has been a place of refuge for centuries.
  • 2. A place where nuns live, practice their religious duties, and engage in communal life.
    • Example: She decided to enter the nunnery to dedicate her life to spiritual service.
  • 3. An archaic term sometimes used in a derogatory sense to refer to a brothel.
    • Example: In Shakespeare's time, the term nunnery could also imply a disreputable establishment.

Etymology

Middle English nunnerie, from nun + -erie (a suffix indicating a place).

Common Phrases and Expressions

nun's life:

A life dedicated to religious service, often implying strictness or austerity.

nun's habit:

The traditional clothing worn by nuns, symbolizing their religious commitment.

Related Words

nun:

A woman who is a member of a religious community, especially one living under vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

vow:

A solemn promise, often made in a religious context.

convent:

A community of nuns living together under religious vows.

Slang Meanings of nunnery

Meaning: Used humorously to describe a strict or dull environment.

Example Sentence: That new dress code makes our school feel like a nunnery.

Meaning: An exaggerated term for an overly pious or boring situation.

Example Sentence: This meeting is so mundane, it feels like a nunnery in here.