altar rail

noun

1. the rail in front of an altar, separating the sanctuary from those parts of the church that are in front of it.

Word History and Origins

Origin of altar rail¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

The gray shadowy walls seemed turning round and round; Richard caught the altar-rail to stand steady.

From Project Gutenberg

When they stood at last on the base, she put her hand on his shoulder and looked across the brass altar rail.

From Project Gutenberg

There was no attempt to save a spot for any earnest reality, except the poor little enclosure behind the altar rail.

From Project Gutenberg

Besides the motionless figures at the altar-rail there was no one else in the chapel.

From Project Gutenberg

There is a splendid reredos of Caen stone and alabaster, and a peculiarly handsome altar-rail of vert antique and alabaster.

From Project Gutenberg