Mass
/mæs/noun
A religious ceremony in which the Eucharist is celebrated.
Did you know?The term 'Mass' originates from the Latin phrase 'Ite, missa est', meaning 'Go, it is sent', marking the ritual's conclusion and the sending forth of the congregation.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
missa
“a dismissal or sending forth, particularly in a religious context.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
missa
“the term used in the Christian liturgy for the Eucharist.”
Old French
Old French
messe
“the religious service, derived from Latin.”
Middle English
Middle English
messe
“the service of the Eucharist.”
Modern English
English
mass
“the term solidified as the formal designation for the Christian liturgical celebration.”