Al·tar n.
 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.
 Note: ☞ Altar is much used adjectively, or as the first part of a compound; as, altar bread or altar-bread.
 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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