Entry 1 sense Webster, 1913 Retable /(rē̇*tā"b'l)/ · Re·ta·ble · IPA /rɪˈteɪbəl/ 01 n. A shelf behind the altar, for display of lights, vases of flowers, etc. 1. A shelf behind the altar, for display of lights, vases of flowers, etc.(Eccl.)