phiale

noun

phi·​a·​le
ˈfīəlē
plural phialae
-əˌlē
1
: a shallow Greek bowl resembling a Roman patera usually made with a boss in the center and used in ancient times for drinking or pouring libations
2
: a fountain or laver in a church (as at the entrance)

Word History

Etymology

Greek phialē

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

Dictionary Entries Near phiale

Cite this Entry

“Phiale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phiale. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!