1. plural of monastery; buildings or complexes where monks live, work, and worship together

Examples

• The ancient monasteries in Tibet attract thousands of visitors each year.
• Medieval monasteries served as centers of learning and manuscript preservation.
• Many European monasteries were dissolved during the Protestant Reformation.
• The monks at these monasteries follow strict daily schedules of prayer and work.
• Some monasteries offer retreats for people seeking spiritual guidance.
• The architecture of Byzantine monasteries reflects their religious significance.