altar Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the table in Christian churches where communion is given
    communion table; Lord's table.
  2. noun a raised structure on which gifts or sacrifices to a god are made

WordNet

Al"tar noun
Etymology
OE. alter, auter, autier, fr. L. altare, pl. altaria, altar, prob. fr. altus high: cf. OF. alter, autier, F. autel. Cf. Altitude.
Definitions
  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.
    Noah builded an altar unto the Lord. Gen. viii. 20.
  2. In the Christian church, a construction of stone, wood, or other material for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist; the communion table. ✍ Altar is much used adjectively, or as the first part of a compound; as, altar bread or altar-bread.

Webster 1913