patera

noun

pat·​era
ˈpatərə
plural paterae
-əˌrē
1
: an earthenware or metal saucer used by the ancient Romans for drinking and libations at sacrifices
2
: a round or oval disk or medallion bearing an ornamental design in bas-relief or intaglio and often used in decoration of buildings or furniture

Word History

Etymology

Latin; akin to Latin patēre to lie open

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Cite this Entry

“Patera.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patera. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

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