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Thurible: meaning, definitions and examples

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thurible

 

[ ˈθʌrɪbəl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

religious practice

A thurible is a vessel used in religious ceremonies to contain burning incense. It is typically suspended from chains and swung to release fragrant smoke during services, symbolizing prayers rising to heaven.

Synonyms

censer, incense burner

Examples of usage

  • The priest swung the thurible during the mass.
  • Incense filled the air as the thurible was lifted.
  • He carefully prepared the thurible before the ceremony.

Etymology

The word 'thurible' originates from the Latin 'thuribilis', meaning 'that which is used for incense'. The Latin term is derived from 'thus', which means 'incense', from the Greek 'θῦος' (thuos). The use of incense in religious contexts dates back to ancient cultures, where it was often associated with worship and ceremonies intended to please deities. In Christianity, the thurible was adopted to enhance the sacredness of the liturgy, emphasizing the transcendence and spiritual nature of the worship experience. Its design has evolved over time, but it remains an important element in many religious traditions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,605, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.