what is the nave of a church

The nave is the central part of a church, stretching from the main entrance or rear wall to the transepts or, in a church without transepts, to the chancel. The term "nave" comes from the Latin word "navis," meaning "ship," which was an early symbol of the church. The nave is where the congregation sits, stands, and kneels during liturgical services. It is distinct from the area reserved for the choir and clergy. When a church contains side aisles, the strict definition of the term "nave" is restricted to the central aisle, but in a broader sense, the nave includes all areas available for the lay worshippers, including the side-aisles and transepts. The nave is set apart for the laity, while the chancel is reserved for the clergy. In medieval churches, the nave was separated from the chancel by the rood screen.