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Glite Dictionary
aspergill

aspergill

9.9
A small tool with a short handle and a ball with holes holding a sponge used to sprinkle holy water
  • noun
  • Archaic
translation icon : aspersor
  • During the ritual, she watched as the bishop used the aspergill to bless the altar.

Examples

  • The priest dipped the aspergill into the bucket before sprinkling holy water over the congregation.

  • The aspergill is ready.

  • An ornate aspergill from the 18th century is displayed in the cathedral's treasury.

  • Don't forget the aspergill!

  • During the baptism, the priest used the aspergill to sprinkle holy water on the newborn.

  • The choir stood in front of the altar while the minister used the aspergill to bless the congregation.

  • As part of the ceremony, the elder took the aspergill and gently sprinkled water over the flowers.

Synonyms

aspersorium
vsaspergill
  • Specialized
9.9

A small bowl used to sprinkle holy water during a ceremony

is the same device but often referred to by a shorter or alternate technical name
aspergillum
vsaspergill
9.9

A small tool for sprinkling water or powder

is used specifically in religious ceremonies with a sponge filled perforated globe

Surface Forms

aspergill singular
aspergills plural

Etymology

Aspergill comes from the Latin word aspergillum, which means a 'little sprinkler', and from aspergere meaning 'to sprinkle'. A helpful way to remember it is to think of the English word sparse, which comes from the same idea of things being 'spread' or 'scattered', so an aspergill is the small tool used to scatter or sprinkle holy water.