nave Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the central area of a church

WordNet

Nave noun
Etymology
AS. nafu; akin to D. naaf, G. nabe, OHG. naba, Icel. nöf, Dan. nav, Sw. naf, Skr. nabhi nave and navel: cf. L. umbo boss of a shield. *260. Cf. Navel.
Definitions
  1. The block in the center of a wheel, from which the spokes radiate, and through which the axle passes; -- called also hub or hob.
  2. The navel. Obs. hak.
Nave noun
Etymology
F. nef, fr. L. navis ship, to which the church was often likened; akin to Gr. , Skr. naus, and perh. to AS. naca boat, G. nachen, Icel. nökkvi; cf. L. nare to swim, float. Cf. Nausea, Nautical, Naval.
Definitions
  1. (Arch.) The middle or body of a church, extending from the transepts to the principal entrances, or, if there are no transepts, from the choir to the principal entrance, but not including the aisles.

Webster 1913