noun
- Plural of cibarium; ornamental vessels or containers used in Christian churches to hold the consecrated bread (Eucharist) during religious services.
- In architecture, a canopy or baldachin supported by columns, especially one placed over an altar or shrine.
Usage: religious/liturgical term; also called a pyx or tabernacle in some contexts
Usage: architectural term; less common usage
Examples
- The church's ciboriums were crafted from gold and decorated with intricate religious symbols.
- The priest carefully placed the consecrated bread into one of the ciboriums.
- Medieval ciboriums often featured elaborate carvings and precious gemstones.
- The cathedral's ciboriums are displayed in the sacristy when not in use during services.
- These ornate ciboriums have been preserved for over three centuries.