lectisternium

noun

lec·​ti·​ster·​ni·​um

ˌlektəˈstərnēəm

plural lectisterniums

-ēəmz

or lectisternia

-ēə

: a religious rite of ancient Greece and Rome marked by the placing of images of gods on couches and the spreading of food before them

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from lectus couch + -i- + -sternium (from sternere to spread)

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