Parvis

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈpɑːvɪs/
• US IPA: /ˈpɑɹvÉ™s/

Alternative forms

• parvise

Origin

From Anglo-Norman parvis, Middle French parvis, from Late Latin paradisus ("paradise") (used in the Middle Ages to describe the court in front of St Peter's in Rome, and later similar courts in front of other churches).

Full definition of parvis

Noun

1. An enclosed courtyard in front of a building, especially a cathedral.
2. A portico surrounding such a space.
3. The porch of a church, or the room over it.----