rə̇ˈtābəl, rēˈ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: French, from Spanish retablo, modification of Catalan reataula, from rea- backward, behind (from Latin retro- ) + taula table, from Latin tabula tablet, board
: a raised shelf or ledge behind an altar on which are placed the altar cross, the altar lights, and vases of flowers ; also : an elaborate framework rising behind the altar and enclosing a panel decorated with painting, sculpture, or mosaic — compare predella