Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large ceremonial drinking vessel: A "loving cup" is a large cup, often made of metal (like silver) and typically having two handles. It is designed to be passed around and shared among a group of people at a formal gathering or banquet.
   • A trophy awarded as a prize: In competitive contexts, a "loving cup" can also refer to a large, ornate cup, often with two handles, that is given as a trophy to the winner of a contest or competition.

Usage Examples

• As a ceremonial drinking vessel:
  • At the medieval feast, the king shared wine with his knights from a large silver loving cup.
  • The tradition at the reunion is to pass the loving cup so each alumnus can take a sip.
• As a trophy or award:
  • The champion golfer was presented with a magnificent silver loving cup.
  • The school keeps the tennis tournament's loving cup in a special glass display case.

Advanced Usage

• Historical and ceremonial context: The term is strongly associated with formal, communal, or celebratory rituals, such as weddings, banquets, or academic ceremonies, where it symbolizes fellowship and shared celebration.
  • The loving cup ceremony is a central part of the university's graduation banquet.

Variants and Related Words

• Trophy cup: A general term for a cup awarded as a prize. A loving cup is a specific style of trophy cup.
• Chalice: A ceremonial drinking cup, often associated with religious rites. While similar in function, a "chalice" typically has a different cultural and religious connotation than a secular "loving cup."
• Punch bowl: A large bowl for serving punch. Unlike a two-handled loving cup meant for passing, a punch bowl is stationary with a ladle for serving.

Synonyms

• Trophy cup
• Ceremonial cup
• Communal cup

Related Phrases

• To pass the loving cup: This phrase describes the traditional action of sharing the cup among participants.
  • The host began the toast by passing the loving cup to the guest of honor.

Noun

1. a large metal vessel with two handles that is awarded as a trophy to the winner of a competition
   • the school kept the cups is a special glass case
2. a large drinking vessel (usually with two handles) that people drink out of in turn at a banquet