What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
incensory
Example
The priest swung the incensory back and forth, filling the church with the scent of burning incense. [incensory: noun]
Example
The incensory was made of brass and had intricate designs etched into its surface. [incensory: adjective]
thurible
Example
The thurible was filled with smoldering incense and swung back and forth by the altar boy. [thurible: noun]
Example
The thurible was made of silver and had intricate carvings on its surface. [thurible: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thurible is more commonly used than incensory in religious contexts, particularly in Catholic and Orthodox Christian traditions. Incensory is less common and may be used in other religious traditions or in secular contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between incensory and thurible?
Both incensory and thurible are formal words that are typically used in religious contexts. However, thurible may be considered more formal due to its association with traditional religious practices and its use in formal liturgical settings.
