From WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006) [wn]:
altar
n 1: the table in Christian churches where communion is given
[syn: altar, communion table, Lord's table]
2: a raised structure on which gifts or sacrifices to a god are
made
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:
Altar \Al"tar\, n. [OE. alter, auter, autier, fr. L. altare, pl.
altaria, altar, prob. fr. altus high: cf. OF. alter, autier,
F. autel. Cf. Altitude.]
1. A raised structure (as a square or oblong erection of
stone or wood) on which sacrifices are offered or incense
burned to a deity.
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Noah builded an altar unto the Lord. --Gen. viii.
20.
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2. In the Christian church, a construction of stone, wood, or
other material for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist;
the communion table.
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Note: Altar is much used adjectively, or as the first part of
a compound; as, altar bread or altar-bread.
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Altar cloth or
Altar-cloth, the cover for an altar in a Christian church,
usually richly embroidered.
Altar cushion, a cushion laid upon the altar in a Christian
church to support the service book.
Altar frontal. See Frontal.
Altar rail, the railing in front of the altar or communion
table.
Altar screen, a wall or partition built behind an altar to
protect it from approach in the rear.
Altar tomb, a tomb resembling an altar in shape, etc.
Family altar, place of family devotions.
{To lead (as a bride) to the altar}, to marry; -- said of a
woman.
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