retable (redirected from retables)

re·ta·ble  (rtbl, rt-)

n.

A structure forming the back of an altar, especially:

a. An overhanging shelf for lights and ornaments.

b. A frame enclosing painted panels.

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[French, from Spanish retablo, from alteration of Catalan retaule, from earlier reataula, from Medieval Latin retrtabulum : Latin retr-, retro- + Latin tabula, tablet, board.]

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retable [rɪˈteɪb^əl]

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]