What is "altar-cloth"

Altar \Al"tar\, n. [OE. alter, auter, autier, fr. L. altare, pl. altaria, altar, prob. fr. altus high: cf. OF. alter, autier, F. autel. Cf. Altitude.]

1. A raised structure (as a square or oblong erection of stone or wood) on which sacrifices are offered or incense burned to a deity.

   Noah builded an altar unto the Lord.
   --Gen. viii. 20.

2. In the Christian church, a construction of stone, wood, or other material for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist; the communion table.

   Note: Altar is much used adjectively, or as the first part of a compound; as, altar bread or altar-bread.

   Altar cloth or

   Altar-cloth, the cover for an altar in a Christian church, usually richly embroidered.

   Altar cushion, a cushion laid upon the altar in a Christian church to support the service book.

   Altar frontal. See Frontal.

   Altar rail, the railing in front of the altar or communion table.

   Altar screen, a wall or partition built behind an altar to protect it from approach in the rear.

   Altar tomb, a tomb resembling an altar in shape, etc.

   Family altar, place of family devotions.

   To lead (as a bride) to the altar, to marry; -- said of a woman.