Mausoleum: meaning, definitions and examples

A large, stately building housing a tomb or several tombs, often used for prominent individuals or families.

• The royal family was buried in an elaborate mausoleum.
• The mausoleum stood at the center of the cemetery, a testament to a bygone era.

A general term for a large vault, chamber, or grave for burying the dead.

• The archaeologists discovered a tomb that had been undisturbed for centuries.
• She visited her ancestors' tombs during the annual memorial.

A small room or monument, cut in rock or built of stone, where a dead person is laid or buried. This term often has a solemn and historical connotation.

• The guide led us to the sepulchre of the ancient king.
• Throughout history, revered leaders were often laid to rest in sepulchres.

An underground room or vault beneath a church, used as a chapel or burial place.

• The ancient church had a crypt where many were laid to rest.
• Explorers found hidden passages leading to an old crypt beneath the cathedral.