Baldachin
/ˈbɔːl.də.kɪn/noun
A richly ornamented canopy, especially over an altar or throne; also a domed canopy or structure over a bed or seat.
Did you know?Baldachin entered European languages through the prestige of lavish cloth associated with Baghdad, so a word for a sacred canopy may ultimately carry the shadow of an ancient trade empire.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient/Medieval Arabic
Arabic
Baghdādī
“of Baghdad; Baghdadi cloth, a fine luxury textile associated with Baghdad”
Medieval Latin
Latin
baldacchinum
“a rich silk cloth or canopy”
Old French
Old French
baldakin
“a costly fabric or canopy”
14th Century
English
baldakin
“a rich canopy, especially one hung over a throne or altar”
Modern English
English
baldachin
“an ornamental canopy or dome-like covering, especially in church or ceremonial architecture”