Agnus Dei

Definition

A liturgical chant recited as part of the Mass, beginning with those words, or the music to which it is set.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin Agnus Deī (“Lamb of God”).

Example Sentences

• "Matilda continued her incantations; at intervals she took various items from the basket, the nature and name of most of which were unknown to the friar: but among the few which he distinguished, he particularly observed three human fingers, and an agnus dei, which she broke in pieces."
• "The most common of these amulets was the agnus dei, a small wax cake, originally made out of paschal candles and blessed by the Pope, bearing the image of the lamb and flag."