Definition

A special container used in the Roman Catholic Church to hold the consecrated bread, allowing people to see and worship it.

Example

During the service, the priest placed the host in the monstrance for the congregation to adore.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a monstrance during a church service?

Yes, I have! It's quite beautiful and elegant.

I find it fascinating how it holds the host for adoration.

Exactly, it really adds a special touch to the ceremony.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Monstrance is derived from the Latin "monstrare" (meaning to show or demonstrate) and the suffix "-ance" (indicating a state or quality). The word refers to an object used in religious contexts to display the Eucharist, thus embodying the act of showing or demonstrating the sacred.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for 'to show' ('monstrare') to remember that a monstrance is an object that is used to show or display something sacred.

Visually Confused Words