Cremating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cremating
[krɪˈmeɪtɪŋ ]
Definition
funeral practice
Cremating refers to the process of reducing a body to ashes through combustion. This practice is often chosen as an alternative to burial in order to honor the deceased or due to personal beliefs surrounding death and afterlife.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The family chose cremating as their preferred method of honoring their loved one.
- Cremating rather than burying can be more environmentally friendly.
- Many cultures have traditional practices surrounding cremating the deceased.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Practices
- In Hindu culture, it is customary to cremate the dead, believing it helps the soul to achieve moksha (liberation).
- In Japan, more than 99% of deceased people are cremated, with many ceremonies emphasizing the return of the body to nature.
Legal Aspects
- Different states and countries have various laws governing cremation, including who can authorize the process.
- In some places, families must wait a minimum time after death before cremating, to allow for legal procedures.
Environmental Considerations
- Cremation is often considered more environmentally friendly than traditional burial, reducing land use and potential soil contamination.
- Newer technologies are being developed to minimize the carbon footprint of cremation processes.
Psychological Aspects
- For many, cremation represents a way to honor the deceased while releasing emotional attachments to a physical body.
- Studies indicate that families who choose cremation often report feeling a sense of closure and comfort during their mourning process.
Origin of 'cremating'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'cremate' comes from the Latin word 'crematus', meaning 'to burn'.
- It joined the English language in the 17th century, with the first known usage in writing around 1879.
The term 'cremating' originates from the Latin word 'cremare', which means 'to burn'. This practice dates back to ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks and Romans, who believed that fire could liberate the soul from the body. The historical use of cremation has evolved over centuries, with various cultures adopting and adapting the practice based on their beliefs about death and the afterlife. In the 19th century, cremation began to gain popularity in Europe and North America, partly as a response to health concerns associated with overcrowded cemeteries. Modern cremation services emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to a growing acceptance of this method as a respectful and meaningful way to handle human remains.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,063, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.
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