1. Plural of naos; the inner chamber or sanctuary of an ancient Greek temple, typically housing a statue of the deity.
Usage: architecture; classical antiquity; plural form

Examples

• The naoi of Greek temples were often decorated with precious sculptures and offerings.
• Archaeologists studied the naoi to understand how ancient Greeks worshipped their gods.
• The statue of Athena once stood in the naoi of the Parthenon.
• Access to the naoi was typically restricted to priests and authorized individuals.
• The architectural design of the naoi reflected the importance of the deity being honored.