altar
UK: ˈɔːltə | US: ˈɔːltər
n. a raised structure used for religious sacrifices or offerings
n. a sacred table or platform in Christian churches for communion or rituals
The word altar traces back to Latin altare, meaning "high place," reflecting its physical elevation in religious contexts. Originally tied to sacrificial offerings in ancient rituals, the term evolved through Old English alter (influenced by Latin) to its modern form, retaining its sacred connotation. The "high" root (alt) underscores its symbolic prominence in worship spaces.
The priest placed the sacred relics on the altar.
Ancient civilizations built altars to honor their gods.
She knelt before the altar to pray.
The wedding ceremony took place near the marble altar.
Archaeologists discovered a stone altar at the excavation site.