spirit house
A "spirit house" is a cultural and religious structure prevalent in Southeast Asia, often seen as a miniature temple or shrine.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
B2Southeast Asian Culture
(cultural, religious)A small, shrine-like structure on a pedestal where offerings are made to local deities or spirits for protection and good fortune.
Example
- Every morning, she places fresh flowers and food at the spirit house in her garden.
- The spirit house is believed to shelter spirits that might otherwise cause mischief.
C1Philippine Funerary Practices
(cultural, religious)A small replica house made of paper or cardboard, displayed during funerals and later burned as an offering to the deceased.
Example
- During the funeral, a beautifully crafted spirit house was placed near the casket.
- The spirit house was carefully burned as a final offering to the departed soul.
C2Historical Usage
(historical)A location where hard liquor was stored or sold.
Example
- In the 18th century, the tavern also functioned as a spirit house.
- The spirit house was well-known for its selection of fine whiskeys.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "spirit house":
great househaunted housetree housecommon housesnow housewitch housegarden housebig housedream housefish housefancy housemusic housegingerbread houselittle househash house