Lamenter: meaning, definitions and examples
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lamenter
[ləˈmɛntər ]
Definition
Context #1 | Noun
expressing grief
A lamenter is a person who expresses sorrow or grief, typically in a vocal or emotional manner. This term often refers to someone who mourns for the dead or expresses regret for a loss. In many cultural contexts, lamenters play a role in commemorating the deceased through spoken word or song.
Synonyms
mourners, sorrowers, wailers.
Examples of usage
- The lamenter at the funeral moved everyone to tears.
- In ancient times, lamenters were hired to mourn publicly.
- She became a lamenter for her community's losses.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term comes from the Latin 'lamentari', which means to moan or weep.
- In ancient cultures, lamenting was an important ritual, often performed by professional mourners at funerals.
- Throughout history, people have written laments in poetry and songs to express sorrow and memorialize the deceased.
Literature
- Laments are common in poetry, signifying profound emotional expressions, especially in works like 'The Iliad' where characters mourn fallen comrades.
- Famous examples include 'Lament for a Son' by Nicholas Wolterstorff, which explores deep personal grief after losing a child.
- Shakespeare often used lamentations in his plays, capturing the tragic dimensions of loss and sorrow.
Psychology
- Expressing sorrow through lamenting can serve as a form of therapy, helping individuals process grief.
- Studies show that vocalizing feelings of sadness can improve emotional well-being and assist in healing.
- The concept of 'complicated grief' suggests that some individuals find it hard to move past their lamenting, impacting daily life.
Cultural Practices
- In many cultures, public lamentation is a communal expression of grief, enriching social bonds and shared experiences.
- Jewish funeral traditions include the practice of 'Kaddish,' a prayer that often involves lamenting for deceased loved ones.
- In some African cultures, lamenters play a vital role during funerals, often singing and weeping to honor the departed.
Art and Music
- Numerous musical compositions, like 'Adagio for Strings' by Samuel Barber, evoke a sense of lament and deep sadness.
- Visual artists often depict themes of loss and mourning, drawing on the concept of lament to evoke emotional responses.
- The genre of blues music prominently features lament, using lyrics and melodies to express sorrow and heartbreak.