1. Plural of noviciate; the period of training and probation for a novice in a religious community.
Usage: Often used in Catholic and other Christian monastic contexts.
2. Plural of noviciate; the house or building where novices live and train in a religious order.
Usage: Refers to the physical location or institution.

Examples

• Many young people entered the noviciates to begin their religious training.
• The monastery maintained several noviciates for candidates from different regions.
• During their noviciates, the candidates learned the rules and practices of the order.
• The noviciates provided structured guidance for those discerning a monastic vocation.
• She spent two years in the noviciate before taking her final vows.
• The noviciates were designed to test the commitment and spiritual readiness of each candidate.