Definition

A raised platform or step at the base of a Christian altar, often decorated with carvings or paintings that tell a story.

Example

The artist created a beautiful predella that depicted scenes from the life of Christ.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the predella below the altar in that old church?

Yeah, it’s really detailed and beautiful!

I love how it tells a story through those carvings on the predella.

Exactly! It adds so much character to the whole place.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Predella → It is formed from "prae-" (meaning before) and "della" (from Italian "della", meaning of the altar). The word refers to a platform or step before an altar, emphasizing its position in relation to the altar.

Memory Tip

Think of a platform that is 'before' ('prae-') the altar ('della') — that's what a predella is.

Visually Confused Words