altar
noun
an elevated place or structure, as a mound or platform at which religious rites are performed or on which sacrifices are offered to gods, ancestors, etc.
altars
-
pluralof altar.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Today, the excavated base of the Templo Mayor, the step pyramid topped with altars to the Aztec gods of war and rain, is an open-air archaeological site.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 28, 2026
On November 1 and 2, many Mexicans will visit their dead in cemeteries and place offerings at home on colorful altars.
From Barron's ● Oct. 22, 2025
If you’re paying attention, you’ll start to notice them — little altars to chef Anthony Bourdain scattered across America’s restaurants, displayed with something close to religious conviction.
From Salon ● Jun. 20, 2025
A trailblazer in Chicano art, Amalia Mesa-Bains is known for her reimagining of traditional Mexican altars and offerings and her presentations of Mexican American women’s spirituality.
From New York Times ● Apr. 23, 2024
Of course the temple and the two altars had to be decorated, too.
From "The Egypt Game" by Zilpha Keatley Snyder
