Cella
/ΛsΙl.Ι/noun
A small room or chamber, especially in a temple or monastery.
Did you know?In ancient Roman temples, the 'cella' was the sacred space that housed the cult statue, believed to be the earthly abode of the deity.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*kwel-
βto revolve or move around, suggesting enclosure or a space.β
Latin
Latin
cella
βa small room, storeroom, or chamber, often used for religious storage.β
Old French
Old French
celle
βa cell or small chamber, derived from Latin.β
Middle English
Middle English
celle
βa small room, particularly one for monks or nuns.β
Modern English
English
cella
βretained from Latin, referring specifically to small rooms or chambers.β