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n. pl. clere·sto·ries 1. The upper part of the nave, transepts, and choir of a church, containing windows that rise above the roofs of the aisles. 2. A similar structure admitting light into an ancient building such as an Egyptian temple or a Roman basilica. 3. An upper portion of a wall containing windows, especially when rising above a lower roof. [Middle English clerestorie : perhaps cler, giving light, clear; see CLEAR + storie, tier; see STORY2.]  (click for a larger image) clerestorynave wall of a Gothic cathedral A. clerestory B. triforium C. arcade |
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