Deesis

noun

De·​e·​sis

dēˈēsə̇s

plural Deeses

-(ˌ)sēz

: a tripartite icon of the Eastern Orthodox Church showing Christ usually enthroned between the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist

Word History

Etymology

Greek deēsis entreaty, prayer, from dein to lack, miss, deisthai to beg

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now