Word
altar
Phoneticsal·tar
US/ˈɔɫtɝ/
UK/ˈɒltɐ/
Definitions
01religious table
n. a table or flat block used for religious ceremonies, like weddings or offerings.
n. a raised structure or table used as a focus for religious ritual, sacrifice, or the celebration of the Eucharist.
“The couple stood before the altar to exchange their wedding vows.”
“The priest placed the ceremonial chalice upon the stone altar, which had been carved from a single block of local marble centuries ago.”
Pitfall
He wanted to alter the altar.
He wanted to change the altar.
Do not confuse 'altar' (the religious table) with 'alter' (the verb meaning to change).
Synonyms
02figurative devotion
n. a place where you give up something important for a cause or person.
n. a metaphorical site where something is sacrificed or worshipped, often used to describe extreme devotion to an idea.
“He sacrificed his health at the altar of his career.”
“The senator was accused of sacrificing his principles at the altar of political expediency to secure a few extra votes in the primary.”
Literary
03church sanctuary
n. the area at the front of a church where the main table is located.
n. the area surrounding the altar in a church, often referred to as the sanctuary or chancel.
“The choir moved toward the altar at the end of the service.”
“Visitors are requested to remain silent when entering the altar area, as it is reserved for private prayer and reflection.”
Informal
Usage
In this sense, 'altar' refers to the physical space rather than just the furniture.
Etymology
Inherited from Middle English auter, inherited from Old English altar and borrowed from Old French auter, both derived from Latin altāre, probably related to adolere (“burn”); thus "burning place", influenced by altus (“high”). Displaced native Middle English wēved.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Idioms
lead someone to the altar — To get married to someone.
leave someone at the altar — To abandon a prospective spouse by deciding not to get married at the last minute.