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pax

1. The kiss of peace; also, the embrace in the sanctuary now substituted for it at high mass in roman Catholic churches.

2. A tablet or board, on which is a representation of christ, of the virgin Mary, or of some saint and which, in the mass, was kissed by the priest and then by the people, in mediaeval times; an osculatory. It is still used in communities, confraternities, etc. Kiss the pax, and be quiet like your neighbors. (Chapman)

Origin: L. Pax peace. See Peace.