[1] : The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

apse \apse\ a^ps, n.; pl. apses a^p"se^z. see
   apsis.
   1. arch.
      a a projecting part of a building, esp. of a church,
          having in the plan a polygonal or semicircular
          termination, and, most often, projecting from the east
          end. in early churches the eastern apse was occupied
          by seats for the bishop and clergy. hence:
      b the bishop's seat or throne, in ancient churches.
          1913 webster

   2. a reliquary, or case in which the relics of saints were
      kept.
      1913 webster

   note: this word is also written apsis and absis.
         1913 webster
see also:
apsis apsis absis 

[2] : The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

absis \ab"sis\, n.
   see apsis.
   1913 webster
see also:
apsis 

Absis >> A Words
Absis, definition of term: Absis
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