1. A shrine or receptacle in a church where the relics of a saint are kept or displayed.
Usage: archaic; religious/ecclesiastical context
2. A portable shrine or chest used in religious processions to carry relics or sacred objects.
Usage: archaic; religious/ecclesiastical context

Examples

• The feretory in the cathedral housed the remains of the medieval saint.
• Pilgrims visited the feretory to venerate the holy relics.
• During the procession, priests carried the feretory through the streets.
• The ornate feretory was decorated with gold and precious stones.
• Medieval churches often contained a feretory in the chancel or transept.