Graveyard: meaning, definitions and examples
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graveyard
[ ˈɡreɪv.jɑːrd ]
in a spooky setting
A graveyard is a place where dead bodies are buried, typically marked by headstones or other grave markers. It is often associated with spooky or eerie atmospheres, especially during the night.
Synonyms
burial ground, cemetery, grave site.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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graveyard |
Used informally or in a more casual context, often in reference to an old or historic site. It can carry a slightly eerie or mysterious connotation.
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cemetery |
The most neutral and formal term, used in official or respectful contexts. Suitable for discussions about modern or well-maintained burial places.
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burial ground |
Used to describe a specific place where people are buried, often in a historical, cultural, or ancient context. It can imply a sense of heritage or antiquity.
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grave site |
Refers to a specific location where an individual is buried. Often used when talking about the exact spot or in a more personal or focused context.
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Examples of usage
- The old graveyard was overgrown with weeds and the headstones were weathered and cracked.
- Visiting the graveyard at night gave me chills down my spine.
in a historical context
A graveyard can also be a historical site, containing the graves of famous or important figures. These graveyards are often well-maintained and serve as a place of remembrance and reflection.
Synonyms
final resting place, memorial park.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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graveyard |
Used to refer to any burial ground, typically old and often associated with a church.
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memorial park |
Refers to a landscaped cemetery designed like a park, often featuring gardens and monuments. It has a more serene and garden-like atmosphere.
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final resting place |
Used to refer to someone's burial location in a more respectful or solemn context.
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Examples of usage
- The graveyard in the town center holds the remains of many war heroes.
- Tourists visit the graveyard to pay their respects to the founding fathers.
Translations
Translations of the word "graveyard" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cemitério
🇮🇳 कब्रिस्तान
🇩🇪 Friedhof
🇮🇩 kuburan
🇺🇦 кладовище
🇵🇱 cmentarz
🇯🇵 墓地 (ぼち)
🇫🇷 cimetière
🇪🇸 cementerio
🇹🇷 mezarlık
🇰🇷 묘지 (myoji)
🇸🇦 مقبرة (maqbara)
🇨🇿 hřbitov
🇸🇰 cintorín
🇨🇳 墓地 (mùdì)
🇸🇮 pokopališče
🇮🇸 kirkjugarður
🇰🇿 зираты
🇬🇪 საფლავი (saflavi)
🇦🇿 qəbiristanlıq
🇲🇽 cementerio
Etymology
The word 'graveyard' originated from the Old English 'græfgeard', which literally means 'yard of graves'. Graveyards have been used for centuries as burial grounds and places of remembrance. Throughout history, graveyards have held cultural and religious significance, with various customs and traditions associated with them.