Definition

Noun: 1. A small vessel or container for holding water used in washing the hands: Specifically, a type of basin or bowl, often associated with liturgical or ceremonial handwashing.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The priest used a silver urceole for the ritual ablution before the service.
  • In the ancient monastery, an ornate urceole was placed near the entrance for visitors to cleanse their hands.

Advanced Usage

• Liturgical Context: The term is most precisely used in historical or ecclesiastical contexts to describe a specific vessel for ceremonial washing.
  • The archaeological dig uncovered an urceole near the altar, suggesting its use in early Christian rites.

Variants and Related Words

• Urceolus (n): A less common variant with the same meaning.
• Lavabo (n): A basin or similar fixture used for washing, often in a liturgical context; a close synonym in specific usage.
• Ewer (n): A large jug or pitcher used for carrying water, which might be used to fill an .

Synonyms

• Basin: A wide, open container used for holding liquid.
• Lavabo: Specifically a basin used in religious ceremonies for washing the hands.
• Ablution bowl: A descriptive term for a bowl used for ritual washing.

Notes on Usage

• Word Origin: The word originates from Latin , a diminutive of , meaning "pitcher" or "jug."
• Rarity: This is a rare and specialized term, primarily encountered in historical, archaeological, or religious texts rather than everyday language.

Noun

1. a vessel that holds water for washing the hands