# altar

/ˈɔɫtɝ/ (US) · /ˈɒltɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/altar
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. religious table

noun · CEFR B2

a table or flat block used for religious ceremonies, like weddings or offerings.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. figurative devotion

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary

a place where you give up something important for a cause or person.

For teachers: 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.

### 3. church sanctuary

noun · CEFR C2 · Informal

the area at the front of a church where the main table is located.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: In this sense, 'altar' refers to the physical space rather than just the furniture.

## Examples

- The couple stood before the altar to exchange their vows.
- The priest placed the ceremonial bread and wine on the stone altar before the service began.
- Sunlight streamed through the stained glass, illuminating the ornate carvings of the marble altar that had served the parish for over three centuries.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.