Lamenter: meaning, definitions and examples
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lamenter
[ ləˈmɛntər ]
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.
Etymology
The word 'lamenter' derives from the Latin 'lamentari', which means 'to weep, wail, or express sorrow'. The root of this term can be traced back to 'lamentum', meaning 'a wailing or expression of grief'. Over time, varying forms of lamentation have appeared in literature, music, and oral traditions across cultures, embodying the universal human experience of grief. The role of the lamenter has also been significant in many rituals, where their expressions of sorrow serve to both honor the deceased and provide comfort to the living. This practice of lamentation not only serves as a way to cope with loss but also reinforces communal bonds as the community comes together to mourn.