gradin, gradine1
(ˈgreɪdɪn, grəˈdiːn)
[a. or ad. F. gradin, ad. It. gradino, f. grado grade n.]
1. One of a series of low steps or seats raised one above the other.
| 1834 Beckford Italy I. 140 A semi-circular niche, with seats like the gradines of a diminutive amphitheatre. 1851 Sir F. Palgrave Norm. & Eng. I. 709 The Pontiff Formosus received him on the gradins of St. Peter's Basilica. 1862 Rawlinson Anc. Mon. I. v. 334 This monument..tapering gently towards the summit, which is crowned with three low steps, or gradines. |
b. Mining. (See quot.)
| 1839 Ure Dict. Arts, etc. 839 The working is disposed in the form of steps (gradins), placed like those of a stair. |
2. A shelf or ledge at the back of an altar.
| 1877 Lee Gloss. Liturg. & Eccl. Terms, Gradin 1. A French term for a step behind and above the level of the altar-slab for placing the cross and candlesticks upon..2. The term ‘gradine’ has been recently introduced into the Church of England. It corresponds with that already defined. 1887 Ch. Times 23 Sept. 746/3 The altar is well raised, and a gradine above it bears the legal ornaments. 1890 Gasquet & Bishop Edw. VI & Bk. Com. Prayer 59 note, The modern introduction of gradins is a witness to the scruple felt at placing anything on the altar beyond what was necessary for the sacrifice. 1891 Ch. Times 4 Dec. 1180/4 Flowers may stand on the gradines on every Sunday in the year. |