baptistry

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a part of a church, or a separate building beside one, where baptisms are performed

   The medieval baptistry stands apart from the cathedral at the west end of the square.

2. 2
   noun

   a font, basin, or pool used for baptism, especially baptism by immersion

   Steps descended into the tiled baptistry behind the pulpit.

Through Middle English and Ecclesiastical Latin baptisterium from Greek baptisterion, 'a place for bathing or baptism,' ultimately from baptizein, 'to dip or immerse.' Baptistery is an established alternate spelling.

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