Theca

Webster's Dictionary

(1): ( n.) The more or less cuplike calicle of a coral.

(2): ( n.) A sheath; a case; as, the theca, or cell, of an anther; the theca, or spore case, of a fungus; the theca of the spinal cord.

(3): ( n.) The chitinous cup which protects the hydranths of certain hydroids.

(4): ( n.) The wall forming a calicle of a coral.

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature

( Θήκη , a Case ) , or Burse ( Bursa, a "purse" ), a case-cover containing the corporals, and presented to the priest at mass. It was of square form, made usually of rich stuff, and lined like a bag with fine linen or silk; on the upper side was a sacred image or cross. One of the 15th century, of canvas, remains at Hessett, painted with the Veronica (q.v.) and the Holy Lamb.