Definition

A decorative piece of fabric that is hung behind and above an altar, often used in religious settings.

Example

The church's dossal was beautifully embroidered and added a touch of elegance to the altar.

Conversation

Have you seen the new dossal they put up at the church?

Yeah, it looks stunning! The colors are so vibrant.

I love how it adds an elegant touch to the altar.

Absolutely! It really makes the whole place feel special.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dossal originates from the Old French word 'dossal', which refers to a cloth or hanging, particularly one that is used as a decorative covering for an altar. The term is derived from the Latin 'dorsalis', meaning 'of the back', which relates to the position of the hanging behind the altar.

Memory Tip

Imagine a decorative cloth that hangs 'at the back' ('dorsalis') of an altar, helping you remember that a dossal is a type of hanging or covering.

Visually Confused Words