June 06, 2007

Obscure Architectural Term of the Day!

FERETORY. A shrine for relics designed to be carried in processions; kept behind the high altar.

From the Penguin Dictionary of Architecture, Third Edition.

Okay, I sorta have a problem with something that can be hoisted and toted around being labelled as an architectural term, but other dictionaries (none of which have a reference to flightless ANTarctic birds) say it can also be the area of a church where relics are kept.

But, let's face it, it sounds like something you'd keep a ferret in, and therefore has great comedic value.

SO, here's a ferret.

And here's an interesting tale of St. Swithun, which includes a handy graphic showing where his feretory is located.

Posted by Terry Oglesby at June 6, 2007 02:20 PM
Comments

flightless ANTarctic birds

Posted by: steevil (Dr Weevil's bro Steve) at June 6, 2007 02:36 PM

Why is they call it "Antarctica" when there aren't any ants? I tell you, some people are so dumb.

Posted by: Terry Oglesby at June 6, 2007 02:46 PM

How do you know there are no ants?

My favourite architectural term is gadrooning, as in "Please keep your children off the gadrooning."

Posted by: kitchen hand at June 6, 2007 07:07 PM

Dr. Possum told me there were no ants, and I believe everything he says. He also says he used to enjoy a good bit of gadrooning with his chums back when he was at Oxford.

Posted by: Terry Oglesby at June 6, 2007 10:24 PM