monstrance

[ mon-struhns ]

noun

, Roman Catholic Church.

1. a receptacle in which the consecrated Host is exposed for adoration.

monstrance

/ ˈmɒnstrəns /

noun

1. RC Church a receptacle, usually of gold or silver, with a transparent container in which the consecrated Host is exposed for adoration

Word History and Origins

Origin of monstrance¹

1250–1300; Middle English < Medieval Latin mōnstrantia, equivalent to mōnstr ( āre ) to show ( muster ) + -antia -ance

Word History and Origins

Origin of monstrance¹

C16: from Medieval Latin mōnstrantia, from Latin mōnstrāre to show

Example Sentences

He places it in the monstrance and shows it to the people, who during this ceremony kneel, bow, pray and believe.

From Project Gutenberg

The priest, who had descended from the altar, held the little monstrance; the girls' procession was moving before him.

From Project Gutenberg

Another vessel was the monstrance, in which the Blessed Sacrament was carried in procession, and exposed on the altar.

From Project Gutenberg

This monstrance is covered also with jewels of great value which almost conceal it, the gifts of royal personages.

From Project Gutenberg

When the slanting sun fell upon him in front, the monstrance itself looked like another sun.

From Project Gutenberg