altarage: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Ecclesiastical, Archaic
Quick answer
What does “altarage” mean?
Offerings or donations made at a church altar.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Offerings or donations made at a church altar; historically, the revenue or income derived from such offerings.
In historical church contexts, it can also refer to the small surplice fee due to the celebrant at a Eucharist, or more broadly, any perquisites connected with the altar. In archaic usage, sometimes refers to the duties or position of an altar server.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The term is equally rare and specialized in both varieties. It might be marginally more recognized in UK contexts due to the established state church and historical legal texts.
Connotations
Connotes traditionalism, historical church practice, and pre-modern ecclesiastical economics.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both. Likely only encountered in theological/historical texts or canonical law.
Grammar
How to Use “altarage” in a Sentence
The altarage of the parish was documented.He received a small altarage for his services.Disputes over the altarage were common.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in historical, theological, or legal studies discussing pre-modern church finances and practices.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
A technical term in ecclesiastical history and canon law.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “altarage”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “altarage”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “altarage”
- Misspelling as 'alterage' (confusing with 'to alter').
- Using it as a synonym for a general church collection.
- Assuming it is in active, contemporary use.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an archaic and highly specialized term used almost exclusively in historical or theological writing.
No. It refers to the offerings or payments made at or for the altar, not the physical structure.
It would be historically inaccurate and stylistically odd. Use terms like 'collection', 'offerings', or 'donations' instead.
Tithes were a compulsory tax (often one-tenth of produce) for church support. Altarage was specifically voluntary offerings made at the altar for sacraments and masses.
Offerings or donations made at a church altar.
Altarage is usually formal, ecclesiastical, archaic in register.
Altarage: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɔːlt(ə)rɪdʒ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɔːltərɪdʒ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of ALTAR + AGE: Ancient offerings made at the ALTAR that have aged into historical records.
Conceptual Metaphor
CHURCH RITUAL IS A SOURCE OF INCOME.
Practice
Quiz
In which context would you most likely encounter the word 'altarage'?