# convent

/ˈkɑnˌvɛnt/ (US) · /kˈɒnvənt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/convent
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. religious community

noun · CEFR B2

a group of religious women, such as nuns, who live together and follow strict rules.

For teachers: a community of religious persons, specifically nuns, who live under a common rule and religious vows.

- She decided to leave her home and join a convent to dedicate her life to prayer.
- The convent was known for its strict adherence to silence and its commitment to providing medical care for the local poor.

### 2. religious building

noun · CEFR B2

the building or house where a community of nuns lives.

For teachers: the physical structure and grounds occupied by a religious community of nuns.

- The old convent had high stone walls and a beautiful garden in the center.
- Architectural historians visited the medieval convent to study the unique vaulted ceilings of the chapel and the living quarters.

### 3. Christian school

noun · CEFR B2 · Dialect

a school run by a Christian organization, often for girls.

For teachers: a school, typically for girls, managed by a Christian religious order.

- Many children in the city attend the local convent for their primary education.
- The convent school maintained a reputation for academic excellence and disciplined character building throughout the region.

Usage: This sense is primarily used in Indian English.

Teaching tip: In Indian English, 'convent' often refers to the school itself rather than the residence of nuns.

## Examples

- She decided to join a convent and become a nun.
- The old stone convent on the hill has been home to the same order of sisters for over a century.
- While many historic convents have been converted into museums or hotels, some still function as secluded spaces for prayer, education, and community service.

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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.