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.