aspergillums
|as-per-gil-lums|
🇺🇸
/ˌæs.pɚˈdʒɪl.əmz/
🇬🇧
/ˌæs.pəˈdʒɪl.əmz/
(aspergillum)
holy-water sprinkler
Etymology
'aspergillum' originates from Medieval Latin, specifically the word 'aspergilium', where 'aspergere' meant 'to sprinkle'.
'aspergillum' changed from Medieval Latin word 'aspergilium' and was borrowed into English (from 17th century sources); English plural forms have included 'aspergilla' and the anglicized 'aspergillums'.
Initially, it meant 'a device for sprinkling', and over time it has retained that basic meaning referring to the implement used to sprinkle holy water.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural form of 'aspergillum': a liturgical instrument (a small sprinkler) used to sprinkle holy water.
The sacristy contained several aspergillums ready for use during the ceremony.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/30 18:48