altar
|al-tar|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈɔltər/
🇬🇧
/ˈɔːltə/
sacred table
Etymology
Etymology Information
'altar' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'altare,' where 'altus' meant 'high.'
Historical Evolution
'altare' transformed into the Old English word 'altar,' and eventually became the modern English word 'altar.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a high place for sacrifices,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a table or flat-topped block used for religious rituals.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a table or flat-topped block used as the focus for a religious ritual, especially for making sacrifices or offerings to a deity.
The priest stood before the altar, offering prayers.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39