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Necrology Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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necrology

[nɛˈkrɒlədʒi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

death record

Necrology refers to a list or record of individuals who have died, often published in the form of an official notice. It can include brief biographies or obituaries of the deceased. This term is typically used in contexts related to memorials or historical accounts. Necrologies can be found in newspapers, magazines, and historical texts, serving as a way to commemorate those who have passed away.

Synonyms

death notice, ledger of the dead, memorial, obituary.

Examples of usage

  • The necrology section of the newspaper lists all recent deaths.
  • Many historical documents include a necrology of notable figures.
  • The annual necrology of the organization honors its deceased members.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, necrologies serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased, often included in newspapers or journals.
  • Certain religions have specific rituals or practices that involve necrology, as a way to acknowledge and celebrate the lives of those who have passed.
  • Some famous authors have included necrological references in their work, reflecting on societal attitudes toward death.

Literature

  • Literary examples include obituaries that serve as necrologies, showcasing the individual's contributions to society.
  • In poetry, necrology often takes the form of elegies, which are written in memory of someone who has died.
  • Characteristic of necrological literature is its emphasis on preserving legacies through personal stories and achievements.

Psychology

  • The act of writing necrologies can help the bereaved process grief, allowing them to reflect on loss in a structured way.
  • Studies show that reflecting on death can lead to increased appreciation for life, a phenomenon known as 'death anxiety' helping people set priorities.
  • Creating a necrology may also provide comfort, as it offers a tangible means to celebrate a life and share memories with others.

Technology

  • With the advent of digital memorials, necrology has taken on new forms, including online databases that honor those who have passed.
  • Social media platforms now allow users to create virtual necrologies, sharing memories and tributes with a wider audience.
  • The rise of artificial intelligence has introduced options for creating automated necrological summaries, based on the data available about a person.

Origin of 'necrology'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'necrology' comes from the Greek words 'nekros' meaning 'dead body' and 'logos' meaning 'study or discourse'.
  • It was first used in English in the 18th century, reflecting a growing interest in death and memory.
  • The prefix 'necro-' appears in various words related to death, including 'necropolis' (a cemetery) and 'necromancy' (magic involving the dead).

The term 'necrology' derives from the Greek word 'nekros,' meaning 'corpse' or 'dead body,' combined with the suffix '-logy,' which signifies 'study' or 'discourse.' Therefore, necrology literally refers to the study or discourse about the dead. The word has been used since the late 17th century to describe lists or records of deceased individuals. It has roots in various cultural practices where honoring and remembering the dead is significant. Over time, the use of necrology has evolved, and it now often encompasses the publication of obituaries and death notices in modern media, reflecting society's ongoing engagement with mortality and remembrance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,480, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.