reliquary

noun

rel·​i·​quary ˈre-lə-ˌkwer-ē How to pronounce reliquary (audio)
plural reliquaries
: a container or shrine in which sacred relics are kept

Examples of reliquary in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Black Emperor—and Freedom, the record that crystallized McMahon’s songwriting and elevated Amen Dunes beyond its origins as a reliquary of underground curios. Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 10 Dec. 2024 The Crown of Thorns, said to be the wreath placed on Jesus Christ’s head during his crucifixion, and one of the cathedral’s most sacred items, will sit in a sparkling reliquary. Chantal Da Silva, NBC News, 7 Dec. 2024 Those who attend the events on the tour will have the chance to see Aquinas' skull encased in a reliquary, a special container used for the storing and veneration of relics. Christine Rousselle, Fox News, 3 Dec. 2024 The crown of thorns, said to be the wreath placed on Jesus Christ’s head during his crucifixion, and one of the cathedral’s most sacred items, will sit in a sparkling reliquary. Keir Simmons, NBC News, 29 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for reliquary 

Word History

Etymology

French reliquaire, from Medieval Latin reliquiarium, from reliquia relic — more at relic

First Known Use

1550, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reliquary was in 1550

Dictionary Entries Near reliquary

Cite this Entry

“Reliquary.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reliquary. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

reliquary

noun
rel·​i·​quary ˈrel-ə-ˌkwer-ē How to pronounce reliquary (audio)
plural reliquaries
: a small box or shrine in which sacred relics are kept

More from Merriam-Webster on reliquary

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