Altar
Altar ({not transcribed}) , noun
[Old English alter, auter, autier, from Latin altare, pl. altaria, altar, prob. from altus high: compare Old French alter, autier, French autel. Compare Altitude.]
1.
A raised structure (as a square or oblong erection of stone or wood) on which sacrifices are offered or incense burned to a deity.
Noah builded an altar unto the Lord.
2.
In the Christian church, a construction of stone, wood, or other material for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist; the communion table.
Altar is much used adjectively, or as the first part of a compound; as, altar bread or altar-bread.
Collocations (8)
Altar-cloth , the cover for an altar in a Christian church, usually richly embroidered.
Altar cushion , a cushion laid upon the altar in a Christian church to support the service book.
Altar frontal , See Frontal.
Altar rail , the railing in front of the altar or communion table.
Altar screen , a wall or partition built behind an altar to protect it from approach in the rear.
Altar tomb , a tomb resembling an altar in shape, etc.
Family altar , place of family devotions.
To lead (as a bride) to the altar , to marry; -- said of a woman.