/bap"teuh stree, -tis teuh ree/ , n. , pl. baptisteries .
1. a building or a part of a church in which baptism is administered.
2. (esp. in Baptist churches) a tank for administering baptism by immersion.
[ 1425-75; baptisterium baptistérion bathing place (see BAPTIST, -ERY); r. late ME baptizatory baptizatorium ]