Plural of cloister; multiple enclosed courtyards, typically in monasteries or convents, or the covered walkways surrounding them.
Standard English pluralization of cloister. The original architecture was designed as a square or rectangular covered walkway surrounding an open courtyard in the center, providing outdoor space while maintaining connection to the monastic community.
If you've ever walked through an actual cloister in a cathedral or monastery, you'll notice the covered walkway creates natural acoustics and a sense of enclosure—medieval architects understood that the architecture itself encourages contemplation and community.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.