What does altar mean?
An altar is a raised structure or table on which sacrifices, offerings, or religious ceremonies are performed, and it stands among the oldest and most widespread objects of worship across human cultures. In Christian churches, the altar is the central focal point of the sanctuary, where the Eucharist or communion is celebrated; in ancient religions, altars were surfaces for burnt offerings to deities. The word carries strong connotations of reverence, sacrifice, and devotion, appearing most often in religious, ceremonial, and literary contexts. Familiar phrases such as 'stand at the altar' tie it closely to wedding imagery, while expressions like 'a sacrifice on the altar of' extend its use metaphorically to describe something given up for a cause. Derived from the Latin 'altare', rooted in 'altus' meaning high, the word literally evokes elevation toward the divine. Its common confusion with the verb 'alter' makes careful spelling worth noting.
nounA raised structure or table on which sacrifices, offerings, or religious rites are performed, typically in a place of worship.
- A raised table or structure in a church or other place of worship on which religious rites are performed.
- Any structure or surface on which sacrifices or offerings are made to a deity.
"The bride and groom stood before the altar as the priest began the ceremony."
"The congregation gathered around the altar for the morning service."
"Ancient worshippers laid grain and wine upon the stone altar as offerings to their gods."
The plural 'altars' is standard and refers to multiple such structures, e.g., side altars in a large church.
"The cathedral contained several side altars dedicated to different saints."
The word 'altar' traces back to Latin 'altus' — meaning 'high' — so an altar is literally a 'high place' for offerings, which is why we still 'exalt' things today.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of altar
The English word 'altar' derives from the Old English 'alter', borrowed from Latin 'altare', the term for a raised structure used in sacrifice. The Latin root connects to 'altus', meaning 'high', reflecting the elevated position of sacrificial structures. Cognate forms appear across Romance languages, such as French 'autel' and Italian 'altare'. The word has been in continuous use in English since the early medieval period, retaining its religious sense throughout.
How altar is actually used
In Christian churches, 'the altar' often refers specifically to the communion table, and the phrase 'stand at the altar' is strongly associated with weddings. The word carries solemn, sacred connotations and appears almost exclusively in religious or ceremonial contexts.
Easily confused with altar
'Alter' is a verb meaning to change or modify something, while 'altar' is a noun denoting a sacred table or structure used in worship.