re·ta·ble (r  t  b l, r t-)n. A structure forming the back of an altar, especially: a. An overhanging shelf for lights and ornaments. b. A frame enclosing painted panels. [French, from Spanish retablo, from alteration of Catalan retaule, from earlier reataula, from Medieval Latin retr  tabulum : Latin retr-, retro- + Latin tabula, tablet, board.] |
retable [rɪˈteɪbəl]
n
(Christianity / Ecclesiastical Terms) an ornamental screenlike structure above and behind an altar, esp one used as a setting for a religious picture or carving
[from French, from Spanish retablo, from Latin retrō behind + tabula board; see rear1, table]
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