noun

clerestory

/ˈklɪərˌstɔːri/ · say it: KLEER·stor·ee

an upper section of wall with windows above eye level

In more detail

1. (noun) a row of windows high up on the walls of a large building, such as a church, that allow light to enter from above

Examples

1. The clerestory windows of the cathedral filled the interior with natural light even on cloudy days.

How to use clerestory

Clerestory is a formal architectural term used to describe windows positioned above the roofline or upper walls of a building, particularly in churches and cathedrals. It appears in technical architectural discourse and in historical or literary descriptions of grand buildings where such features are notable for their aesthetic and functional role in illuminating interior spaces.

Common phrases

clerestory windows
clerestory light
clerestory wall
clerestory arch
row of clerestories

Synonyms

upper windows · high windows · monitor windows · light windows

Word family

clerestories (plural)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse the spelling with 'clear story' or misspell it as 'clearstory,' not recognizing that it derives from Middle English and refers to the clarity of light rather than a clear narrative.

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