Ciborium (container)

The word "ciborium" was also used in classical Latin to describe such cups,[2] although the only example to have survived is in one of Horace's odes (2.7.21–22).

[3] In medieval Latin, and in English, "Ciborium" more commonly refers to a covered container used in Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran and related churches to store the consecrated hosts of the sacrament of Holy Communion.

It resembles the shape of a chalice but its bowl is more round than conical, and takes its name from its cover,[clarification needed] surmounted by a cross or other sacred design.

The ciborum may be veiled to indicate the presence of the consecrated hosts, as shown in this article's photo gallery.

Other containers for the host include the paten (a small plate) or a basin (for loaves of bread rather than wafers) used at the time of consecration and distribution at the main service of Holy Eucharist.