# Garth

/ˈɡɑɹθ/ (US) · /ɡˈɑːθ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/garth
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a small, quiet garden or yard that is surrounded by walls or buildings. You often find these in the middle of old churches or monasteries.

For teachers: an open space or courtyard, typically a garden, enclosed by a cloister or the walls of a large ecclesiastical building. Often serves as a central focal point in monastic architecture.

## Examples

- The monks grow herbs in the central garth.
- After the morning service, the visitors sat in the quiet garth to enjoy the flowers and the sun.
- The cathedral's ancient garth remains a sanctuary of silence, its manicured lawn framed by the intricate stone arches of the surrounding medieval cloister.

## Usage notes

- Primarily used in architectural or historical contexts, specifically regarding monasteries, abbeys, or cathedrals.

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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.