clerestory

noun

clere·​sto·​ry ˈklir-ˌstȯr-ē 

-st(ə-)rē

variants or less commonly clearstory

1

: an outside wall of a room or building that rises above an adjoining roof and contains windows

2

: gallery

Illustration of clerestory

• clerestory 1

Examples of clerestory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Hallmarks of mid-century modern style include rich hardwood floors, stylish clerestory windows, and oversized glass doors. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2024

As the day passes, shadows trace the earthen-red floors, clock-like in their sweep and complemented by golden beams of light from clerestory windows above the main living area. —Nick Remsen, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Nov. 2024

The 2022 four-bedroom has a vaulted great room with clerestory windows, wall of sliders, and floating wood-and-steel stairs; open kitchen with island and garage-door window; primary suite with walk-in closet; rec room; and wine cellar. —The Week Staff, theweek, 19 Nov. 2024

The open-plan four-bedroom has stone walls, wood ceilings and floors, clerestory windows, multiple decks, a kitchen with walls of windows overlooking the trees, and an owners' suite with two bathrooms and a wood-burning fireplace. —The Week Staff, theweek, 24 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from clere clear + story

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

clerestory

noun

clere·​sto·​ry ˈkli(ə)r-ˌstōr-ē 

-ˌstȯr-

plural clerestories

: an outside wall of a room or building that rises above a roof next to it and contains windows