Explanation of some Architectural and Ecclesiastical Terms:
Apsidal (Apse): In Saxon and Norman architecture, the semi-circular end
of a chancel.
Arcade: Range of arches supported on columns.
Aumbry: Cupboard to hold sacred vessels.
Chancel: Eastern end of a church containing the altar.
Clerestory: Upper storey of the nave containing windows.
Gnomon: Metal rod, in the centre of a dial.
Lancet: Narrow window with pointed arch.
Misercord: Carved underside of a choir stall seat.
Nave: Main part of a church.
Piscina: Bowl with drain for washing sacred vessels.
Priest's door: Generally in the chancel.
Reredos: Structure behind and above an altar.
Rood screen: A carved wooden screen separating chancel from nave, but mostly destroyed in the Reformation. Traditionally figures of Christ Crucified (the Rood) flanked by St Mary Virgin and St John the Evangelist stood above the screen.
Sanctuary: Area around the High Altar.
Scratch or Mass dial: A sun dial on the south face of the church, which cast the sun's shadow on marks (scratches) to indicate the time of masses. See Gnomon.
Transept: North and south of the crossing where the nave and chancel meet.
Approximate Periods of English Church Architecture: