1. a building or room in a church where baptism is administered, typically containing a baptismal font or pool
Usage: also spelled 'baptistry'; often found in Christian churches
2. in early Christian architecture, a separate building used for baptismal ceremonies
Usage: historical usage; common in ancient and medieval churches

Examples

• The baptistery of the cathedral features an ornate marble font.
• Visitors admired the Renaissance frescoes decorating the baptistery walls.
• The priest led the child to the baptistery for the christening ceremony.
• Many medieval churches had a separate baptistery adjacent to the main sanctuary.
• The baptistery contains holy water used for the sacrament of baptism.