definition
strict definition
convent
A residence for nuns or other female members of a religious order, with or without an affiliated worship site.
A convent is a home for nuns or other female members of any religious order. It may or may not be affiliated with a nearby church or temple or other religious center.
The residence is designated for female members of an order. It need not stand beside a church, temple, or other religious center.
A monastery describes a collective way of religious life and can house either men or women. The female membership described by convent can therefore overlap with a monastic arrangement.
Related definitions
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friary
Group housing for members of a religious order who are active in the outside world. -
monastery
Collective housing for members of a religious order whose communal life centers on the residence. -
rectory
A home for clergy or other religious officeholders, usually associated with a parish or congregation.