reliquary

/'relikwəri/

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Explanation of the Word "Reliquary"

Definition:
A reliquary is a special container or box used to hold and display religious relics, which are objects that have special importance because they are connected to a saint or holy figure.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, you might find reliquary used metaphorically to describe any container or place that preserves something precious, not just in a religious sense.

Word Variants:

• Reliquaries (plural): Refers to more than one reliquary.
• Reliquary-like (adjective): Describing something that resembles a reliquary.

Different Meanings:

While reliquary specifically refers to a container for religious relics, it can also be used in a broader sense to refer to any cherished container or place that holds memories or significant items.

Synonyms:

1. Shrine - a place where a saint or holy figure is honored.
2. Casket - a box for holding valuable items, often used for funerary purposes.
3. Vitrine - a glass display case, which can also hold important objects.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no well-known idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to reliquary, but you might hear phrases like "to treasure something" or "to hold dear" when discussing the importance of items kept in a reliquary.

Summary:

A reliquary is a significant and often ornate container for religious relics, particularly those associated with saints.

Academic

Noun

1. a container where religious relics are stored or displayed (especially relics of saints)