An altar card is a decorative and symbolic card that is placed on the altar during religious ceremonies. It is often used in Christian and Catholic churches during Mass, and it can be made of various materials such as paper, wood, or metal. The altar card is an important part of the religious ceremony and holds significant meaning.
Definitions
An altar card is a card that is placed on the altar during religious ceremonies. It typically contains the prayers and texts that are used during the ceremony. The card can be decorated with images of saints, religious symbols, or other decorative elements.
Origin
The use of altar cards dates back to the early days of Christianity. In the Middle Ages, the cards were often made of parchment or vellum and were decorated with gold leaf and other decorative elements. The cards were used to hold the texts and prayers that were used during the Mass.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, an altar card is “a card bearing the prayers and texts used by the priest at the altar during the celebration of the Eucharist.” Merriam-Webster defines an altar card as “a card containing the prayers and texts used by the celebrant at the altar during the Eucharist.”
Associations
The altar card is associated with religious ceremonies, particularly in Christian and Catholic churches. It is often used during the Mass and is an important part of the ceremony.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for altar card include altar missal, missal stand, and altar book.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for altar card, as it is a unique item used specifically in religious ceremonies.
The same root words
The word “altar” comes from the Latin word “altare,” which means “high place.” The word “card” comes from the Latin word “cardo,” which means “hinge.”
Example Sentences
- The priest placed the altar card on the altar before beginning the Mass.
- The altar card was decorated with images of saints and other religious symbols.
- The altar card contained the prayers and texts that were used during the ceremony.