Definition of convent

The word "convent" has its roots in the Latin language. The Latin word "conventus" means "gathering" or "assembly". In the 10th century, the Latin word was adapted into Old French as "convent", which referred to a gathering or meeting of people, often for religious purposes. In the 12th century, the term "convent" began to be used specifically to refer to a community of monks or nuns living together in a shared building, often with a church or chapel on the premises. Over time, the term "convent" became more widely used to describe any type of religious institution, such as a monastery, cloister, or nunnery. Today, the word "convent" can also refer to any kind of enclosed or secluded community, such as a convent of nuns or a convent school. Despite its evolution, the word "convent" still retains its roots in the Latin concept of "conventus", or gathering.