galilee

n. [ Supposed to have been so termed in allusion to the scriptural “Galilee of the Gentiles.” cf. OF. galilée. ] (Arch.) A porch or waiting room, usually at the west end of an abbey church, where the monks collected on returning from processions, where bodies were laid previous to interment, and where women were allowed to see the monks to whom they were related, or to hear divine service. Also, frequently applied to the porch of a church, as at Ely and Durham cathedrals. Gwilt. [ 1913 Webster ]