exonarthex

/IH0 G Z AA1 N AA0 R TH EH1 K S/
noun
  1. 1

    (architecture, Christianity) The space anterior to the narthex of a church, sometimes roofed-over as with a porch, but more often an enclosed courtyard; in antiquity, the courtyard where catechumens were permitted to be close to the Eucharist, but forbidden to see it celebrated.