Locutorium meaning

A locutorium is a designated room in a monastery for communication, typically reserved for speaking with guests or conducting business.


Locutorium definitions

Word backwards muirotucol
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division lo-cu-to-ri-um
Plural The plural of the word "locutorium" is locutoria.
Total letters 10
Vogais (3) o,u,i
Consonants (5) l,c,t,r,m

What is a Locutorium

A locutorium is a designated area within a monastery or other religious institution where monks or nuns are allowed to speak with visitors. This space serves as a meeting point for the members of the community and the outside world, allowing for communication without compromising the overall atmosphere of silence and contemplation that is typically maintained in the rest of the facility.

Roles and Functions

In a locutorium, monks or nuns can have conversations with guests, receive spiritual guidance, and attend to administrative matters. It serves as a bridge between the enclosed life of the monastery and the external world. The locutorium often has a separate entrance to the main monastery building to ensure that visitors do not disrupt the daily routines of the residents.

Etymology and History

The term "locutorium" comes from the Latin word "locutio," which means "speaking" or "conversation." In religious contexts, locutoriums have been used for centuries as a place for communication between the members of a religious community and visitors. They provide a space for both social interaction and the exchange of ideas.

The Importance of Silence

While the locutorium allows for verbal communication, it is essential to recognize the value of silence in religious life. Monks and nuns spend a significant amount of time in quiet reflection, prayer, and meditation. The locutorium serves as a controlled environment where conversation can take place without disrupting the overall atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

Modern Use

In contemporary religious institutions, the locutorium may still be utilized for its traditional purposes, albeit with some modifications to accommodate modern communication methods. Some monasteries have adapted to technology by allowing online interactions in addition to in-person visits, maintaining the balance between the timeless practice of communication and the realities of the digital age.


Locutorium Examples

  1. The locutorium in the monastery was a quiet room where monks could engage in private conversation.
  2. The university had a state-of-the-art locutorium for students to practice their public speaking skills.
  3. During medieval times, the locutorium was a designated area in the castle for important announcements.
  4. The office building had a dedicated locutorium for employees to make phone calls in privacy.
  5. In ancient Rome, the locutorium served as a meeting room for discussions and debates.
  6. The library had a soundproof locutorium where patrons could listen to audio recordings without disturbing others.
  7. The locutorium at the radio station was equipped with the latest broadcasting technology.
  8. The hotel had a designated locutorium where guests could make international calls without leaving their rooms.
  9. The locutorium was used as a waiting room for visitors before entering the courtroom.
  10. During the conference, the locutorium was used for speakers to prepare and rehearse their presentations.


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  • Updated 02/05/2024 - 09:35:03