noun

temple

temple

They visited an ancient temple.

They visited an ancient temple.

He has a small scar on his temple.

He has a small scar on his temple.

a/an/the ((temple)) a building for religious worship or the side of the head They visited an ancient temple.

Synonyms: shrine, sanctuary; Related: head, side

The building sense comes from Latin 'templum' (sacred space). The head sense comes from Latin 'tempora' (sides of the head). They have different origins.

Remember the two distinct meanings: a building for worship and the side of your head. Think of your head as the 'temple' of your thoughts.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.