- absis
- Apse Apse ([a^]ps), n.; pl. Apses ([a^]p"s[e^]z). [See
{Apsis}.]
1. (Arch.)
(a) A projecting part of a building, esp. of a church,
having in the plan a polygonal or semicircular
termination, and, most often, projecting from the east
end. In early churches the Eastern apse was occupied
by seats for the bishop and clergy. Hence:
(b) The bishop's seat or throne, in ancient churches.
[1913 Webster]
2. A reliquary, or case in which the relics of saints were kept. [1913 Webster]
Note: This word is also written {apsis} and {absis}. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.
