temple

[/ˈtɛmpəl/]
nounpl: temples
templo
1. A building devoted to the worship of a god or gods
The ancient temple was built over two thousand years ago.
O templo antigo foi construído há mais de dois mil anos.
2. Either of the flat regions on the sides of the head between the forehead and the ear
She felt a sharp pain in her temple during the migraine.
Ela sentiu uma dor aguda na têmpora durante a enxaqueca.
3. A place of worship or religious significance
The temple served as a spiritual center for the community.
O templo servia como um centro espiritual para a comunidade.
4. A building or institution dedicated to a particular purpose
The library was considered a temple of knowledge.
A biblioteca era considerada um templo do conhecimento.
In Brazil, 'templo' is widely used across different faiths including Catholic churches, evangelical temples, Buddhist temples, and Hindu temples. The word carries strong spiritual significance in Brazilian culture, particularly within the growing evangelical Christian movement where 'templo' is the primary term. In the USA, 'temple' is commonly associated with Jewish synagogues and Buddhist/Hindu religious buildings, while Christian places of worship are typically called 'churches.'
Synonyms / Sinônimos
sanctuaryshrineplace of worshipplace of devotion

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
templo
Standard term used across Brazil for religious buildings
Rio de Janeiro
templo
Commonly used; may also hear 'santuário' in some contexts
São Paulo
templo
Standard usage; prevalent in Pentecostal and evangelical communities
Portugal
templo
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; also 'santuário' or 'edifício de culto'

Related Words

shrinechurchmosquesynagoguealtarworshipdeityspirituality

Related Idioms & Phrases

my body is a temple
temple of doom
sacred temple
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