Cemetery

Definition

Cemetery refers to a place designated for the burial of the dead. It is typically a large, landscaped area where graves or burial plots are arranged for people to visit and pay respects to the deceased.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛməˌtɛri/
• Respelling: SEM-uh-ter-ee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛmɪtri/
• Respelling: SEM-i-tree

The word "cemetery" is pronounced slightly differently in American and British English, with the primary difference being the emphasis on syllables and the pronunciation of the final syllable.

Etymology

The term "cemetery" originates from the Late Latin word "coemeterium," which is derived from the Greek word "koimētērion," meaning "sleeping place" or "dormitory." This reflects the early Christian belief that the dead were merely "sleeping" until the resurrection. The word evolved to its modern English form through Old French "cimetiere."

Derivatives

• Cemeterial (adjective)
• Cemeteries (plural noun)
• Cemeterian (noun, rare)
• Graveyard (synonymous noun)
• Burial ground (synonymous noun)

Synonyms

• Graveyard
• Burial ground
• Necropolis

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "cemetery" is commonly used to describe a designated area where people are buried after death. For example, "The family visited the cemetery to place flowers on the graves of their ancestors," or "The ancient cemetery is now a historical landmark." Cemeteries are often maintained by religious institutions, municipalities, or private organizations.

Related Terms

• Grave: A place of burial marked by a stone or other monument.
• Mausoleum: A building constructed to house tombs.
• Funeral: A ceremony held to honor and bury the dead.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A place designated for the burial of the dead: Refers to a landscaped area where graves are maintained, often with headstones or monuments.
  • Example: "The town's oldest cemetery dates back to the 18th century."
• A burial ground associated with a specific community or religion: Refers to a place of burial linked to a particular group or faith tradition.
  • Example: "The church maintains a small cemetery adjacent to its grounds."