ALTAR BOYZ Meaning and
Definition
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Altar Boyz is a term used to describe a musical theater show or a theatrical group composed of male performers who typically play the roles of young altar servers in a Christian church. The term specifically refers to a popular off-Broadway musical titled "Altar Boyz" that premiered in 2005.
In the context of the musical, Altar Boyz features a fictional Christian boy band that aims to spread their faith through catchy pop music. The show is known for its satirical and comedic approach, with the performers portraying stereotypical boy band members while delivering religious messages in a light-hearted manner. The storyline revolves around the final concert of the group's "Raise the Praise" tour, where each character shares personal struggles and journeys of faith.
The term can also be used more broadly to describe groups of young male church members serving as altar servers during religious ceremonies. Altar boys traditionally assist the priest during Mass, performing various duties such as carrying the processional cross, holding candles, fetching items, or assisting with the preparation of the altar. This role often signifies a dedication to the church and a desire to participate actively in its rituals.
Overall, whether referring to the musical or real-life participants, "Altar Boyz" typically signifies a group of young male performers or church members who carry out specific roles in promoting Christian faith and worship.
Etymology of ALTAR BOYZ
The word "Altar Boyz" is a compound term composed of two parts:
1. "Altar": The word "altar" is derived from the Latin word "altāre", which refers to a raised structure or platform used for religious rites or sacrifices, particularly in Christian churches. The term can be traced back to ancient Latin, where "altārium" referred to a burnt offering or sacrifice.
2. "Boyz": The word "boyz" is a stylized version of the word "boys", which is the plural of "boy". The alteration of the spelling is often seen in popular culture to create a sense of informality or to reflect a specific group or subculture, in this case, the modern pop music industry.
Therefore, "Altar Boyz" combines the concept of religious rituals or worship (altar) with the representation of a specific group of boys (boyz).
