mazer
Noun: 1. A large drinking bowl or cup made of hardwood, especially maple, often ornamented and used in medieval and Renaissance times for communal drinking or ceremonial purposes.
The word "mazer" is a historical term. It refers specifically to a type of drinking vessel, not a general bowl. It is used when discussing historical artifacts, medieval feasts, or antique collecting. * In medieval halls, the mazer was often passed among guests. * The museum's collection includes a silver-rimmed mazer from the 14th century.
- The ceremonial mazer was filled with wine for the toast.
- He collected antique tableware, with his prized piece being an ornate mazer.
- "Standing mazer": A mazer mounted on a foot or stem, distinguishing it from a simpler bowl form.
- The standing mazer on display showed exceptional craftsmanship.
- Mazerwood (n, archaic): The maple wood traditionally used to make mazers.
- The bowl was turned from fine mazerwood.
- Drinking bowl: A more general, modern term.
- Goblet: A drinking cup with a stem and foot, often of metal or glass, serving a similar ceremonial function.
- Hanap: A medieval term for a rich, elaborate drinking cup, often made of precious materials, which can be similar in use to an ornate mazer.
The core meaning is a hardwood drinking bowl. Its historical context is essential; it is not a word used for contemporary dishware. While often made of maple ("mazer" is related to the Old English word for maple), the defining feature is its function as a communal or ceremonial drinking vessel, frequently decorated with metal bands or mounts.
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a large hardwood drinking bowl
