From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:
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.
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Noah builded an altar unto the Lord. --Gen. viii.
20.
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2. In the Christian church, a construction of stone, wood, or
other material for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist;
the communion table.
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Note: Altar is much used adjectively, or as the first part of
a compound; as, altar bread or altar-bread.
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{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.
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