Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

paten

noun

/ˈpætən/

Definition

A shallow dish used in religious ceremonies for holding the bread that will be consecrated during the Eucharist.

Examples

The priest placed the host on the paten before the ceremony.
Traditionally, the paten is made of gold or silver to signify its importance.
During the service, the paten was carefully handled to avoid any spillage of the sacred elements.

Meaning

A paten is primarily used in Christian liturgical settings, particularly during Mass. It holds the host, which represents the body of Christ during the sacrament.