Diota, Gr. (δί-ωτα, with two ears). A name applied indifferently to any kind of vase furnished with two handles, such as lagenæ, amphoræ, canthari, &c.
Diplinthus, R. (πλίνθος, a brick). Masonry two bricks thick.
Diploïs, Gr. and R. Folded in two; an upper garment which was doubled in the same manner as a woman’s shawl at the present day; it was much worn among the Greeks.
Diploma, Gr. and R. (δίπλωμα, i. e. double-folded). A passport consisting of two leaves (whence its name). The term is also used to denote a diploma by which any right or privilege is conferred.
Dipteral, Arch. A building having double wings. The term is applied to any building having a double intercolumniation all round it.
Diptheræ, Gr. and R. (διφθέραι; δέφω, to make supple). (1) Prepared skins for writing on. (2) A kind of garment; an overcoat of skin or leather which Greek slaves put on over their tunic.
Diptych, Gr. (δί-πτυχα, i. e. double-folded). Double tablets united by means of strings or hinges. Diptycha consularia, ædilitia, prætoria had engraved on them portraits of consuls, ædiles, prætors, and other magistrates. These consular diptychs were a part of the presents sent by new consuls on their appointment to very eminent persons. The series of them is a very valuable record of the progress of the art of ivory carving. In Christian archæology diptychs were decorated with scenes from biblical history. There were also diptychs of the baptized; of the bishops and benefactors of a church, living or dead; of saints and martyrs; and, lastly, of deceased members of the congregation, whose souls were to be remembered at mass. (See Triptych.)
Directors, or Triangular Compasses. A mathematical instrument adapted for taking three angular points at once.
Diribitorium, R. (diribeo, to sort or separate). A place or building in which a public officer inspected the troops, distributed the pay, and enrolled the conscripts in their respective regiments.
Dirige, Chr. A psalm forming part of the burial service, “Dirige gressus meos,” &c.; hence Dirge, for funereal music or hymns in general.