Chapel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chapel
[ˈtʃæpəl ]
Definition
place of worship
A chapel is a small building or room used for Christian worship within a larger institution or building, such as a school, hospital, or prison. It is typically used for prayer services, weddings, funerals, and other religious ceremonies.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chapel |
A small place of worship, often attached to a larger church or institution, such as a hospital or university. Often used for personal or small group devotion.
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| church |
A larger building used for public Christian worship, typically referring to the main place of worship for a community.
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| sanctuary |
The sacred, most-dignified area within a church, often around the altar; also used to describe a place of refuge and safety.
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| oratory |
A small, private chapel, often found in a private home or a monastery. Used for individual prayer or small services.
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Examples of usage
- The chapel at the university is open to students of all faiths.
- They held a memorial service for the fallen soldiers in the chapel.
- I got married in the chapel of the old castle.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, chapels serve as meaningful spaces for ceremonies like weddings, christenings, and funerals.
- Chapel services often create a sense of community, bringing together people in various life events.
Architecture
- Chappels can be found in various styles, from simple and rustic to ornate and grand, depending on the location and tradition.
- Some chapels are built within larger religious structures, like cathedrals, while others are standalone buildings in rural areas.
Notable Chapels
- The Sistine Chapel in Vatican City is renowned for its stunning frescoes painted by Michelangelo, showcasing artistic achievements of the Renaissance.
- Chapel Royal in England serves as a royal place of worship and showcases the intertwined nature of monarchy and religion.
Literature and Pop Culture
- Chapel has been a focal point in literature, symbolizing sanctuary and reflection, as seen in various novels and poems.
- Films often use chapels as settings for pivotal scenes of transformation or spiritual revelation.
Origin of 'chapel'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'capella', which means a cloak, referring to the mantle of Saint Martin, a famous figure in Christianity.
- In the Middle Ages, the term began to be used for places of worship that housed this relic.
The word 'chapel' originated from the Latin word 'cappella', which means 'little cloak'. This term was used to describe a sanctuary that housed the sacred relics of a saint. Over time, the concept of a chapel evolved to refer to a place of Christian worship, separate from a church. Chapels have played a significant role in providing spiritual solace and a sense of community in various institutions and settings.