# abaton

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abaton
Updated: 2026-05-01

## Senses

### 1. restricted sacred space

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical · Formal

a part of a holy building that is restricted or private.

For teachers: an inaccessible or restricted area within a sacred building, often reserved for priests or specific rituals.

- Only the high priest was allowed to enter the abaton of the ancient temple.
- The architectural layout of the cathedral ensures that the abaton remains shielded from the view of the general congregation during the most solemn rites.

Usage: Usually functions as a countable noun in archaeological or theological contexts.

Teaching tip: This is a highly specialized term; in most modern contexts, 'sanctuary' or 'inner sanctum' is preferred unless discussing Greek or Egyptian history.

### 2. ancient healing chamber

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical · Archaic

a room in an ancient Greek temple where sick people slept to get better.

For teachers: a specific enclosure within the temple of Asclepios where patients underwent incubation, sleeping in hopes of receiving a healing dream from the god.

- Sick travelers would spend the night in the abaton, hoping for a cure.
- Archaeological excavations at Epidaurus revealed the foundations of the abaton, where hundreds of pilgrims once sought divine intervention for their ailments.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.