Convent

Pronunciation

• IPA: /kÉ’n.vÉ›nt/

Origin

From Anglo-Norman covent, from Latin conventus, perfect participle of the verb convenio, see con-, venio.

Full definition of convent

Noun

1. A religious community whose members (especially nuns) live under strict observation of religious rules and self-imposed vows.
2. The buildings and pertaining surroundings in which such a community lives.
• AddisonOne seldom finds in Italy a spot of ground more agreeable than ordinary that is not covered with a convent.
3. A gathering of people lasting several days for the purpose of discussing or working on topics previously selected.
4. A coming together; a meeting.
• Ben Jonsona usual ceremony at their witches' convents or meetings

Related terms

• convenance
• convene
• convenient
• conventicle
• convention
• covenant

Verb

1. (obsolete) To call before a judge or judicature; to summon; to convene.
• 1613, William Shakespeare, , V. i. 52:Tomorrow morning to the Council board
  He be convented.
2. (obsolete) To meet together; to concur.
3. (obsolete) To be convenient; to serve.
• 1599, William Shakespeare, , V. i. 379:When that is known and golden time convents.