Ambo
/ˈæm.boʊ/noun
A raised platform or lectern in an early Christian church from which scripture was read.
Did you know?In early Christian basilicas, the ambo could have separate stairways for entering and leaving, symbolizing the solemn movement of scripture into public hearing.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ambhi
“Around; on both sides—a root associated with surrounding or encircling.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἄμβων (ambōn)
“A raised rim, boss, or projecting platform.”
Late Antiquity
Greek
ἄμβων (ambōn)
“An elevated church platform used for reading scripture and preaching.”
Medieval Latin
Latin
ambo
“A raised pulpit or lectern in a church.”
16th Century
English
ambo
“A pulpit or reading desk in an early Christian church.”
Modern English
English
ambo
“A raised platform or lectern, especially in an early Christian basilica.”
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