Introduction:
“Alter” and “altar” are homophones, meaning they sound the same but have different meanings and spellings.
Alter meaning (verb):
To change or modify something.
Altar meaning (noun):
A raised platform or structure, typically in a place of worship, where religious rituals or ceremonies are performed.
Origin
Alter origin:
From Middle English alteren, which comes from the Latin word alterare, meaning “to change” or “to make different.” This is based on the Latin alter meaning “the other” or “another,” implying a change or transformation from one state to another.
Root: Latin alter (“the other”).
Altar origin:
From Old French autel, which in turn came from Latin altare, meaning “a raised place” or “a structure used for religious sacrifices.” The Latin root altus means “high,” indicating that an altar is typically a raised platform or structure.
Root: Latin altus (“high”).
Alter pronunciation and altar pronunciation
Alter synonyms
- Change
- Modify
- Adjust
- Transform
- Revise
- Amend
- Reshape
- Rearrange
- Convert
- Adapt
Alter antonyms
- Preserve
- Maintain
- Keep
- Retain
- Fix
- Stabilize
Altar synonyms
- Shrine
- Sanctuary
- Chancel
- Tabernacle
- Sacrificial table
- Holy table
- Sacred space
- Place of worship
Altar antonyms
- common space
- worldly space
- secular space
- profane space
Alter examples
- She decided to alter her hairstyle before the big event.
- The doctor recommended that he alter his diet to improve his health.
- The teacher had to alter the lesson plan due to the time constraints.
- The company plans to alter its pricing strategy next year.
- They altered the schedule to accommodate everyone’s availability.
- The artist altered the painting by adding a few more details.
- He had to alter his travel plans because of the flight cancellation.
- She altered the design of the website to make it more user-friendly.
Altar example
- The priest placed the candles on the altar before beginning the ceremony.
- The couple exchanged vows at the altar in a beautiful church.
- The flowers on the altar added a lovely touch to the wedding service.
- The congregation gathered around the altar to pray together.
- The ancient temple had a large altar where sacrifices were made to the gods.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between alter and altar is crucial for effective communication. Alter refers to making a change or modification, while altar denotes a sacred structure used in religious rituals. Misusing these terms can lead to confusion and misinterpretation of your message. By grasping their meanings and contexts, you can enhance your writing and speech clarity.
FAQs
Is it an altar or alter wedding?
In the wedding world, the altAr is the place where the bride and groom exchange vows and get married. Here’s a peek at Olamide and Okem at the altar during their wedding ceremony at Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration in Dallas! The word altEr could refer to a menu change or change in wedding plans.
What does altar refer to?
An altar is a noun that refers to a raised platform or table used for religious rituals and offerings.
