diptych

Meaning

Noun

• A writing tablet consisting of two leaves of rigid material connected by hinges and shutting together so as to protect the writing within.
• A picture or series of pictures painted on two tablets, usually connected by hinges.
• A double catalogue, containing in one part the names of living, and in the other of deceased, ecclesiastics and benefactors of the church.
• A catalogue of saints.
• Artistically-wrought tablets distributed by consuls, etc. of the later Roman Empire to commemorate their tenure of office; hence transferred to a list of magistrates

Related

Broader meaning words

• polyptych

Origin

• From Late Latin diptycha, plural, from Ancient Greek, neuter plural of δίπτυχος, from δι + πτυχος (akin to Greek πτυχή).