apostle spoon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareSpecialist/Historical/Antiques
Quick answer
What does “apostle spoon” mean?
A silver spoon with a figure of one of the twelve apostles as the terminal of the handle.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A silver spoon with a figure of one of the twelve apostles as the terminal of the handle.
A type of collectible or antique spoon, often given as a christening gift in Tudor and Stuart England, historically representing a specific apostle.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is historically British in origin and context. It is understood in American antique circles but refers specifically to an English artefact.
Connotations
In the UK, it carries stronger connotations of national heritage and historical christening traditions. In the US, the connotation is more purely antiquarian or museological.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse in both regions. Slightly more likely to be encountered in UK auction catalogues or heritage publications.
Grammar
How to Use “apostle spoon” in a Sentence
The [collector] acquired an apostle spoon.The [christening] gift was an apostle spoon.A complete [set] of apostle spoons is very rare.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “apostle spoon” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The apostle-spoon collection was impressive.
- It had an apostle-spoon feel to its design.
American English
- The museum's apostle-spoon exhibit is new.
- He specializes in apostle-spoon research.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Used in art history, material culture studies, and historical papers discussing Tudor/Stuart domestic silver or baptismal customs.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Used precisely in antique silver valuation, auction cataloguing, and museum curation to describe a specific class of object.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “apostle spoon”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “apostle spoon”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “apostle spoon”
- Using it to refer to any ornate spoon. Mispronouncing 'apostle' as /ˈæp.əs.əl/. Forgetting it is a compound noun and writing 'apostle's spoon'. Using it in a modern context unrelated to antiques.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a specific type of antique silver spoon, popular in 16th and 17th century England, which has a figure of one of the twelve apostles cast as the finial (top) of its handle.
They were traditionally given as christening gifts, with the godparent often presenting the spoon, symbolising the child's entry into the Christian faith. A full set of twelve was a lavish gift.
Yes, especially if they are made of silver, bear clear hallmarks, are in good condition, and are part of a set. Individual spoons are collectible, but complete sets are extremely rare and valuable.
No, it is a highly specialised term. The average native speaker is unlikely to know it unless they have an interest in antiques, history, or silverware.
A silver spoon with a figure of one of the twelve apostles as the terminal of the handle.
Apostle spoon is usually specialist/historical/antiques in register.
Apostle spoon: in British English it is pronounced /əˈpɒs.əl ˌspuːn/, and in American English it is pronounced /əˈpɑː.səl ˌspuːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine an APOSTLE holding a SPOON, standing on its handle. It's a spoon for a special occasion, blessed by a biblical figure.
Conceptual Metaphor
A RELIGIOUS FIGURE IS A HANDLE (for a utilitarian object, elevating its status). HERITAGE IS A TANGIBLE OBJECT.
Practice
Quiz
In what context would you most likely encounter the term 'apostle spoon'?