| 1. | a large cup, as of silver, usually with two or more handles, given as a prize, award, token of esteem or affection, etc. |
| 2. | a wine cup, usually of large size with several handles, passed from one person to another, as at a farewell gathering. |
| loving cup n.
|
loving cup
large, two-handled cup, often made of silver, that may take many forms. In the past, at weddings, banquets, or meetings, a loving cup might be shared by a number of persons for ceremonial drinking, symbolizing friendship and unity. Loving cups are often given as trophies to winners of games or other competitions. The French coupe de mariage is a somewhat shallow form of loving cup.
Learn more about loving cup with a free trial on Britannica.com.