preceptory

English

Etymology

From mediaeval Latin praeceptoria, noun use of the feminine of praeceptorius (“commanding”).

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /pɹɪˈsɛptəɹi/

Noun

preceptory (plural preceptories)

1. A community of the Knights Templar, or the physical buildings or estate of such a community.
   • 1819, Walter Scott, Ivanhoe:

     “The most petty baron may arrest, try, and condemn a witch found within his own domain. And shall that power be denied to the Grand Master of the Temple within a preceptory of his Order?”

Adjective

preceptory (not comparable)

1. preceptive
   • c. 1573, Anderson, [unknown work]

     a law preceptory