clerestory

noun

clere·​sto·​ry ˈklir-ˌstȯr-ē How to pronounce clerestory (audio)
-st(ə-)rē
variants or less commonly clearstory
1
: an outside wall of a room or building that rises above an adjoining roof and contains windows
2

Illustration of clerestory

Illustration of clerestory
  • clerestory 1

Examples of clerestory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Oversized windows at eye level and numerous clerestory windows flood the room with natural light year-round. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 27 Jan. 2025 To the right is the sunken living room, which has a row of clerestory windows and a fireplace with a ceiling-height brick surround. Angela Serratore, New York Times, 8 Jan. 2025 Hallmarks of mid-century modern style include rich hardwood floors, stylish clerestory windows, and oversized glass doors. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2024 As the day passes, shadows trace the earthen-red floors, clock-like in their sweep and complemented by golden beams of light from clerestory windows above the main living area. Nick Remsen, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for clerestory 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from clere clear + story

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clerestory was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near clerestory

Cite this Entry

“Clerestory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clerestory. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

clerestory

noun
clere·​sto·​ry ˈkli(ə)r-ˌstōr-ē How to pronounce clerestory (audio)
-ˌstȯr-
plural clerestories
: an outside wall of a room or building that rises above a roof next to it and contains windows

More from Merriam-Webster on clerestory

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