a vessel adapted for various domestic purposes, and anciently for sacrificial uses; especially, a vessel of antique or elegant pattern used for ornament; as, a porcelain vase; a gold vase; a grecian vase.  see illust. of portland vase, under portland.-a vessel similar to that described in the first definition above, or the representation of one in a solid block of stone, or the like, used for an ornament, as on a terrace or in a garden. see illust. of niche.-the body, or naked ground, of the corinthian and composite capital; -- called also tambour, and drum.-the calyx of a plant.