altar

Meaning

Noun

• A table or similar flat-topped structure used for religious rites.
• A raised area around an altar in a church; the sanctuary.
• Any (real or notional) place where something is worshipped or sacrificed to.

Origin

• From Middle English alter, from Old English alter, altar, taken from Latin altare ("altar"), probably related to adolere; thus "burning place", influenced by altus.