The term “by-altar” is a relatively uncommon phrase that may not be familiar to many people. However, it has a specific meaning and is often used in religious contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and associations of “by-altar.”
Definitions
The term “by-altar” refers to the area or space near an altar. It can also refer to the people who are standing or sitting near the altar during a religious ceremony. In some cases, “by-altar” may also be used to describe the objects or decorations that are placed near the altar.
Origin
The origin of the term “by-altar” is not entirely clear, but it likely comes from the Old English word “be” meaning “near” or “by,” and the Latin word “altar.” The term has been used in religious contexts for centuries and is still used today.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The term “by-altar” is not commonly found in most dictionaries, but it can be found in some religious dictionaries or encyclopedias. In these sources, the definition is generally consistent with the definition given above.
Associations
As mentioned earlier, “by-altar” is primarily associated with religious ceremonies. It is often used in Christian, Jewish, and other religious contexts to describe the area near the altar where the most important parts of the ceremony take place.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “by-altar” include “altar area,” “sanctuary,” and “chancel.”
Antonyms
As “by-altar” is a relatively specific term, there are no clear antonyms for it. However, some opposite concepts could include “far from the altar” or “not in the vicinity of the altar.”
The same root words
The root words of “by-altar” are “be” and “altar,” which are both relatively common words in the English language. However, they are not typically used together in other contexts.
Example Sentences
Here are a few examples of how “by-altar” might be used in a sentence:
- During the wedding ceremony, the bride and groom stood by the altar.
- The choir sang from the by-altar area during the church service.
- The priest placed the communion bread on the by-altar table.
In conclusion, “by-altar” is a term that is primarily used in religious contexts to describe the area near an altar. While it may not be a common term in everyday language, it has a specific meaning and is still used regularly in religious ceremonies.