Ambon
/ˈæm.bɒn/noun
A raised platform or lectern in a church from which scripture or sermons are read.
Did you know?The ambon’s name is linked to Ancient Greek movement upward, reflecting the platform’s original role as the elevated place for proclaiming sacred texts.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʷem-
“To come or go; the ancient root associated with movement toward a place.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ana-baínein
“To go up or ascend; formed from ana-, “up,” and baínein, “to go.””
Classical Greek
Greek
ambṓn (ἄμβων)
“A boss, raised rim, or elevated platform.”
Late Antiquity
Latin
ambo
“A raised church platform used for reading scripture or preaching.”
Middle English
English
ambon
“A raised pulpit or reading desk in a church.”
Modern English
English
ambon
“An elevated church platform or lectern for proclaiming scripture or sermons.”