grail

grail · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (usually "Holy Grail") In medieval legend, the cup or platter used by Jesus at the Last Supper, and later sought by knights as a sacred quest.

  2. 2.

    Something that is eagerly pursued or sought after as an ultimate goal or achievement.

Forms

plural: grails

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Holy Grail — the legendary sacred cup; any ultimate goal
  • •
    grail quest — a search for something highly desired and elusive

Related words

See also: legend, quest, sacred
Synonyms: holy cup, sacred vessel, ultimate goal

Etymology

From Old French graal or grael ("a large flat dish"), possibly from Medieval Latin gradalis ("a flat dish"). The association with Christian legend developed in medieval romances.