patera Meaning, Definition & Usage

Pat"e*ra noun

Etymology

L., fr. patere to lie open.

Wordforms

plural Pateræ()

Definitions

1. A saucerlike vessel of earthenware or metal, used by the Greeks and Romans in libations and sacrificies.
2. (Arch.) A circular ornament, resembling a dish, often worked in relief on friezes, and the like.