Gravedigger: meaning, definitions and examples
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gravedigger
[ ˈɡreɪvˌdɪɡər ]
occupation job
A gravedigger is a person whose job is to dig graves in a cemetery. This role is often associated with preparing burial sites and may involve additional tasks related to the burial process. Gravediggers play a significant role in the final resting places for those who have passed away.
Synonyms
burial assistant, grave digger, sexton
Examples of usage
- The gravedigger worked late into the evening, preparing for the funeral.
- After the storm, the gravedigger had to reinforce several graves to prevent erosion.
- Local gravediggers often share stories of the lives of those buried in their cemetery.
Translations
Translations of the word "gravedigger" in other languages:
🇵🇹 coveiro
🇮🇳 कब्र खोदने वाला
🇩🇪 Bestatter
🇮🇩 penggali kubur
🇺🇦 гробар
🇵🇱 grabarz
🇯🇵 墓掘り
🇫🇷 fossoyeur
🇪🇸 sepulturero
🇹🇷 mezar kazıcı
🇰🇷 무덤 파는 사람
🇸🇦 حافر القبور
🇨🇿 hrobník
🇸🇰 hrobár
🇨🇳 掘墓人
🇸🇮 grobar
🇮🇸 grafar
🇰🇿 қабір қазушы
🇬🇪 საფლავის გამყიდველი
🇦🇿 məzar qazıcı
🇲🇽 cavador de tumbas
Etymology
The term 'gravedigger' originated from the combination of the words 'grave,' meaning a burial place for a dead body, and 'digger,' a term used for someone who excavates or removes earth. The use of the word can be traced back several centuries, where the profession was often carried out by workers in burial grounds or cemeteries. Historically, gravediggers were not only responsible for digging graves but also played a role in the post-mortem rituals of various cultures. As societal norms evolved and burial practices changed, the role of the gravedigger became more formalized, leading to the establishment of cemetery management and professional services in modern times. The symbolism of gravedigging is often associated with respect for the deceased and the solemnity of final rites, making it a significant yet somber profession.