How Do You Spell REREDOS?

Pronunciation: [ɹɪɹˈiːdə͡ʊz] (IPA)

The word "reredos" is spelled with four consonants and two vowels, and follows the pattern of "CVCVCV" in terms of syllables. The initial "r" sound is pronounced with the tongue curling back towards the roof of the mouth, and is followed by a short and sharp "e" sound. The next "r" sound is also pronounced with the tongue curling back, followed by a longer "e" sound. The final "os" is pronounced with a "ohs" sound, as in "close". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is written as /rɪərˈdɒs/.

REREDOS Meaning and Definition

1. A reredos is a term used in architecture and church design to refer to a decorative screen, partition, or structure placed behind the altar in a church. It is typically located on the eastern wall of the chancel, the space within a church that surrounds the altar. The reredos serves to visually enhance and glorify the area where the Eucharist is celebrated.

   Usually made of stone, wood, or metal, the reredos is often intricately carved or ornamented with religious motifs, statues, paintings, or stained glass, providing a visually striking focal point to the entire church interior. Its purpose is to create a backdrop that complements and frames the altar, emphasizing its importance and distinguishing it as a sacred space within the church.

   The term "reredos" originates from the medieval Latin phrase "retro dorsum," which means "behind the back." Over the centuries, reredoses have evolved in style and materials, reflecting the changing architectural trends and artistic preferences of each era. While some reredoses are grand and elaborate, others can be simpler and more understated, depending on the architectural style of the church and the artistic traditions of the region.

   In addition to its visual appeal, the reredos often symbolizes the link between heaven and earth, serving as a visual representation of the spiritual realms and a testament to the divinity of the altar. It has become an integral part of liturgical spaces, enriching the religious experience for worshippers and visitors alike.

2. In arch., the back of a fireplace; the carved ornamental screen at the back of the altar, in height from 3 to 6 feet above it; a screen; a partition-wall.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for REREDOS

• eeredos
• deredos
• feredos
• teredos
• 5eredos
• 4eredos
• rwredos
• rsredos
• rdredos
• rrredos
• r4redos
• r3redos
• reeedos
• rededos
• refedos
• retedos
• re5edos
• re4edos
• rerwdos

Etymology of REREDOS

The word reredos is derived from the Middle English term resde, which meant a partition or screen behind an altar. This Middle English term itself originated from the Old French word re-, which means again or back, and dos, which refers to back or rear. Therefore, reredos literally translates to back of the altar or behind the altar.

Plural form of REREDOS is REREDOSS