Chapel: meaning, definitions and examples
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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.
|
| church |
A larger building used for public Christian worship, typically referring to the main place of worship for a community.
|
| sanctuary |
The sacred, most-dignified area within a church, often around the altar; also used to describe a place of refuge and safety.
|
| oratory |
A small, private chapel, often found in a private home or a monastery. Used for individual prayer or small services.
|
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "chapel" in other languages:
🇵🇹 capela
🇮🇳 चैपल
🇩🇪 Kapelle
🇮🇩 kapel
🇺🇦 каплиця
🇵🇱 kaplica
🇯🇵 チャペル
🇫🇷 chapelle
🇪🇸 capilla
🇹🇷 şapel
🇰🇷 예배당
🇸🇦 كنيسة صغيرة
🇨🇿 kaple
🇸🇰 kaplnka
🇨🇳 小礼拜堂
🇸🇮 kapela
🇮🇸 kapella
🇰🇿 шіркеулік
🇬🇪 სამლოცველო
🇦🇿 kapella
🇲🇽 capilla