Word
chancel
Phoneticschan·cel
UK/tʃˈɑːnsəl/
Countable noun
Definition
n. the part of a church that is closest to the altar. It is usually separated from the main part of the church by a screen or a low wall.
n. the part of a church that contains the altar and is typically separated from the nave by a screen or low wall. Often used in the context of ecclesiastical architecture or legal property rights.
Examples
“The choir sings from the chancel during the service.”
“The architect designed the chancel to be slightly higher than the nave to emphasize the altar's importance.”
“In many medieval cathedrals, the chancel is distinguished by its more intricate stone carvings and the presence of a choir screen that separates the sacred space from the congregation.”
Examples
simple
“The choir sings from the chancel during the service.”
contextual
“The architect designed the chancel to be slightly higher than the nave to emphasize the altar's importance.”
complex
“In many medieval cathedrals, the chancel is distinguished by its more intricate stone carvings and the presence of a choir screen that separates the sacred space from the congregation.”
Real-World Examples
“He also compiled a history of the building and was instrumental in restoring the chancel roof.” Etymology
From Old French chancel. Doublet of cancellus.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/chancel