Definition of the word cloister

The word "cloister" has its roots in the Latin language. It is derived from the word "claustrum," which means "enclosure" or "nook." In the early Middle Ages, a cloister referred to a courtyard or a covered walkway in a monastery or convent that was enclosed by a wall or a series of columns. The cloister provided a peaceful and secluded space where monks and nuns could retreat from the distractions of the outside world and focus on their spiritual lives. Over time, the word "cloister" took on a broader meaning, referring to any enclosed or secluded area, such as a garden or a courtyard. Today, the term is often used in architecture and literature to describe a peaceful and serene space that is set apart from the hustle and bustle of the world.