Funeral: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for the overall ceremony for someone who has passed away, including their burial or cremation. It is a formal event with rituals depending on cultural or religious practices.

• They attended the funeral to pay their last respects
• Her funeral was held at the local church

Specifically refers to the act of placing the deceased body into the ground. Often used to describe the physical process rather than the entire ceremony.

• The burial took place in the family plot
• They chose a peaceful location for his burial

An event or structure dedicated to remembering the deceased. It can be a service, monument, or any other form of remembrance that may or may not include the physical presence of the body.

• They held a memorial for him on his birthday
• The memorial included speeches and shared memories

Broad term that can refer to any ceremonial gathering related to the deceased, including funerals, memorials, and other remembrance events. It emphasizes the communal and ceremonial aspects.

• The service brought together many friends and family
• A candlelight service was held in his honor

A formal or official term for the act of burying a body, usually emphasizing the ceremony of placing a body in its final resting place. Often used in more official or legal contexts.

• The interment will follow the funeral service
• Interment was conducted in accordance with the deceased's wishes

Used when referring to the formal event or ceremony held to honor someone who has passed away. It typically involves rituals and can be religious or secular.

• The funeral will be held at St. Mary's Church on Saturday.
• She wore black to the funeral to show her respect.

Used to refer to a gathering or social event typically held before or after a funeral, where friends and family come together to remember the deceased. It often involves sharing stories, food, and sometimes drinks.

• The wake will be held at the family's home after the funeral.
• We had a wake for her where everyone shared their favorite memories.

Used for a ceremony that is held to honor and remember a deceased person, but the body is not present. Often more informal and can be held long after the person has passed away.

• We organized a memorial service for him six months after his passing.
• The memorial service was filled with touching tributes and stories.

Used to talk about the act of remembering and paying tribute to someone who has died. It often involves a ceremony or event but can also be a general term for the action.

• A special remembrance ceremony was held on the anniversary of his death.
• In remembrance of our fallen soldiers, a wreath will be laid at the memorial.