monstrance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "monstrance" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in religious contexts, referring to a vessel used to display the consecrated Eucharist in Christian liturgy. Example: "During the procession, the priest carried the monstrance, allowing the congregation to venerate the Blessed Sacrament."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Among such works was a silver-gilt monstrance (vessel to contain the Host) for Notre Dame in Paris, commissioned in 1716.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The most important Portuguese work, the Belém monstrance, created by Gil Vicente in 1506 for Belém Monastery near Lisbon, is still Gothic in style; later, Portugal developed its own style, related to Spanish work but not copied from it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the 16th century the monstrance took its present shape: a circular pane of glass set in a cross or surrounded with metal rays.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The practice of benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, for example, is a blessing conferred by a priest holding a consecrated host in a vessel of display called a monstrance; the priest's hands are covered to signify that it is the blessing of Jesus and not his own.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Monstrance, also called ostensorium, in the Roman Catholic church and some other churches, a vessel in which the eucharistic host is carried in processions and is exposed during certain devotional ceremonies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There are reliquary busts of the Czech saints Adalbert, Wenceslas and Vitus, from the end of the 15th century,  and Baroque pieces, like a glass Monstrance from 1845, the newest piece on display.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

First used in France and Germany in the 14th century, when popular devotion to the Blessed Sacrament developed, monstrances were modeled after pyxes or reliquaries, sacred vessels for transporting the host or relics.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ciboria (covered vessels for holding the wafers of the Eucharist), monstrances (receptacles for the Host), incense vessels, and other liturgical implements were also made in copper gilt, as well as in bronze and silver.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The poly-lobed base and the raised stand with elaborate fleur-de-lis are in the best tradition of flamboyant Gothic monstrances.

The New York Times - Arts

Copes and slippers and gloves are exquisitely, dazzlingly embroidered; tiaras and croziers, chalices and monstrances are intricately adorned with precious jewels and flourishes.

The New York Times - Arts

Also on hand is a group of astonishingly tall, futuristic-looking objects known as tower monstrances.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing religious ceremonies or artifacts, ensure accuracy in terminology. Use "monstrance" specifically when referring to the vessel used to display the Eucharist.

Common error

Avoid using "monstrance" interchangeably with other liturgical vessels like "pyx" or "ciborium". A "monstrance" is specifically for displaying the Eucharist, while others serve different purposes.

Linguistic Context

The noun "monstrance" functions as a noun, specifically a common noun, referring to a tangible object. Ludwig AI confirms it is used to denote a particular type of vessel in religious contexts, as seen in various examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

30%

News & Media

65%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "monstrance" is a noun referring to a specific type of vessel used in religious contexts, particularly within Christianity, for displaying the Eucharistic host. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in encyclopedias and news media, indicating its widespread recognition. While alternatives like "ostensorium" exist, understanding the precise meaning of "monstrance" ensures accuracy in writing, especially when discussing religious practices, historical artifacts, or artistic designs. Therefore, while the term is well-established, it should be used with precision to avoid confusion with other liturgical objects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Ostensorium

Synonym referring to the same liturgical vessel.

Sacred receptacle

Describes the function of the "monstrance" as a container for sacred items.

Eucharistic vessel

Highlights the use of the vessel in Eucharistic rites.

Host display

Focuses on the "monstrance's" purpose of displaying the Eucharistic host.

Liturgical vessel

Broader term encompassing various vessels used in religious services.

Reliquary

Similar vessel used to hold relics, not specifically the Eucharist.

Tabernacle

A secure place of exclusive storage for consecrated hosts, not a vessel of display.

Pyx

A small container used to carry the Eucharist, often to the sick or homebound.

Ciborium

Covered vessel to hold hosts, but not typically used for display.

Blessed Sacrament vessel

General term for a container holding the Eucharist.

FAQs

What is the primary function of a "monstrance"?

The primary function of a "monstrance" is to display the consecrated Eucharistic host for veneration during religious ceremonies, such as Benediction or Eucharistic processions.

How does a "monstrance" differ from a "tabernacle"?

A "monstrance" is used for displaying the Eucharist, while a "tabernacle" is a secure place for storing the consecrated hosts. The "monstrance" is for temporary exhibition; the "tabernacle" is for safekeeping.

Are there alternative terms for "monstrance"?

Yes, "monstrance" is also commonly referred to as an "ostensorium". Both terms describe the same liturgical vessel.

In what historical periods were "monstrances" most elaborately designed?

Historically, "monstrances" saw particularly elaborate designs during the Gothic and Baroque periods, reflecting the artistic styles and devotional practices of those eras.