Obsequy: meaning, definitions and examples
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obsequy
[ əbˈsɛkwi ]
funeral rite
Obsequy refers to a funeral or burial rite. It encompasses the traditional ceremonies held in honor of the deceased. The term is often used in formal or literary contexts, denoting the solemnity associated with death and the customs that accompany it. These rites can vary significantly across cultures but generally serve to pay respects to the dead and to provide closure for the living.
Synonyms
burial, ceremony, funeral, rite.
Examples of usage
- The family arranged for the obsequy to honor their loved one.
- Many cultures have unique obsequies that reflect their beliefs about death.
- The obsequy included a procession through the town.
- The community gathered to participate in the solemn obsequy.
Translations
Translations of the word "obsequy" in other languages:
🇵🇹 funeral
🇮🇳 अंत्येष्टि
🇩🇪 Beerdigung
🇮🇩 upacara pemakaman
🇺🇦 похорон
🇵🇱 pogrzeb
🇯🇵 葬儀
🇫🇷 obsèques
🇪🇸 entierro
🇹🇷 cenaze
🇰🇷 장례식
🇸🇦 جنازة
🇨🇿 pohřeb
🇸🇰 pohreb
🇨🇳 葬礼
🇸🇮 pogreb
🇮🇸 grafreitur
🇰🇿 жерлеу
🇬🇪 კრემაცია
🇦🇿 dəfn
🇲🇽 entierro
Etymology
The word 'obsequy' originates from the Latin word 'obsequium,' which means 'compliance' or 'obedience.' This Latin term itself is derived from 'obsequi,' meaning 'to follow or attend to.' The transition to English began in the late Middle Ages, where 'obsequy' began to be used in the context of funeral rites, emphasizing the respect and attention given to the dead. Historically, such rites were deeply ingrained in various cultures, reflecting their beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife. Over time, the word evolved to encapsulate the broader meaning of funeral ceremonies. The formal and somewhat archaic tone of 'obsequy' has kept it in the realm of literary and scholarly use rather than casual conversation.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #42,601, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.