altars

[ˈɔːl.tɑːrz]
nounpl: altars
altares
1. A table or platform in a place of worship, typically used for religious rituals, ceremonies, or sacrifices
The priest stood at the altar during the wedding ceremony.
O padre ficou em pé no altar durante a cerimônia de casamento.
2. A structure or place dedicated to a deity or used for making religious offerings
Ancient civilizations built altars to honor their gods.
As civilizações antigas construíram altares para honrar seus deuses.
3. A focal point or place of devotion, often used metaphorically
He sacrificed his health on the altar of success.
Ele sacrificou sua saúde no altar do sucesso.
In Brazilian culture, altars hold significant importance across multiple religions including Catholicism, Protestantism, and Afro-Brazilian religions (Candomblé and Umbanda). Home altars are also common in Brazil, serving as personal spaces for spiritual devotion. In the USA, altars are primarily associated with Christian churches, though they appear in various spiritual and cultural contexts. The term is frequently used metaphorically in both cultures to describe devotion or sacrifice.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
shrinessanctuariestablesplatforms

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
altares
Standard term used throughout Brazil for religious or ceremonial tables
Rio de Janeiro
altares
Used in religious contexts, particularly in Catholicism and Afro-Brazilian religions
São Paulo
altares
Common in both traditional churches and contemporary spiritual practices
Portugal
altares
Similar usage to Brazilian Portuguese, predominantly in Catholic and religious contexts

Related Words

altarchurchtempleworshipceremonyritualsacreddivine

Related Idioms & Phrases

at the altar (at the point of marriage)
lead someone to the altar (to marry someone)
sacrifice on the altar of (to give up something important for a cause)
on the altar (in a position of being sacrificed or devoted)
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