altar — a table or flat-topped block used as the focus for a religious ritual, especially for making sacrifices or offerings to a deity
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a table or flat-topped block used as the focus for a religious ritual, especially for making sacrifices or offerings to a deity
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɔːltər/
Example Sentences
- He left his bride at the altar and ran away with her best friend.
- The ancient altar was discovered buried under centuries of dirt.
- She sacrificed her career on the altar of motherhood.
altar
NOUN[/ˈɔːltər/]
a table or flat-topped block used as the focus for a religious ritual, especially for making sacrifices or offerings to a deity
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Latin altus, meaning 'high' or 'elevated'. In ancient Roman times, it referred to a raised platform or structure where sacrifices were made to the gods, literally meaning 'high place'.
Breakdown
altus (high, elevated) + -ar (noun suffix indicating place or object) = altar (high place for sacred offerings)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“He left his bride at the altar and ran away with her best friend.”
“The ancient altar was discovered buried under centuries of dirt.”
“She sacrificed her career on the altar of motherhood.”
“The cat knocked over all the candles on the altar during the ceremony.”
📚Related Words
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