Sepulchral: meaning, definitions and examples

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sepulchral

 

[sɪˈpʌl.krəls ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

tone, atmosphere

Sepulchral is an adjective used to describe something that is related to a tomb or burial. It often conveys a somber, gloomy, or mournful quality. This word is frequently used to describe voices or sounds that are deep and resonant, invoking the stillness and silence associated with death. It can also refer to a mood or atmosphere that feels heavy with sorrow or foreboding, often inspiring a sense of dread. In literature and art, sepulchral themes may be used to evoke a powerful emotional response.

Synonyms

dark, dismal, funereal, gloomy, mournful.

Examples of usage

  • The sepulchral tone of his voice filled the room with unease.
  • The sepulchral atmosphere of the old cemetery was palpable as night fell.
  • Her sepulchral expressions left us all in silence.
  • The sepulchral moans of the distant wind echoed through the valley.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'sepulcralis', which means 'related to burial'.
  • It is derived from 'sepulcher', which refers to a burial place, showcasing the word's connection to death and mourning.

Literature

  • In Gothic literature, sepulchral settings often enhance the eerie atmosphere, evoking feelings of despair and loss.
  • Writers like Edgar Allan Poe frequently used sepulchral imagery to express themes of mortality and the macabre.

Culture

  • In many cultures, sepulchral monuments are built to honor the deceased, showing respect and remembrance.
  • Art depicting sepulchral themes can be found in various forms, from ancient sculptures to modern films and plays that explore life and death.

Psychology

  • The concept of sepulchral can evoke deep emotional responses related to grief and loss, helping individuals process their feelings towards death.
  • It is often associated with the human fascination with mortality, prompting discussions about what happens after life.

Music

  • The term is used in music to describe a dark, somber atmosphere, often employed in compositions that reflect themes of death.
  • Music genres such as gothic rock sometimes use sepulchral tones to create a powerful, haunting experience for listeners.

Translations

Translations of the word "sepulchral" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sepulcral

🇮🇳 समाधि से संबंधित

🇩🇪 sepulkral

🇮🇩 kubur

🇺🇦 поховальний

🇵🇱 sepulkralny

🇯🇵 墓の

🇫🇷 sépulcral

🇪🇸 sepulcral

🇹🇷 mezar

🇰🇷 무덤의

🇸🇦 قبري

🇨🇿 hrobový

🇸🇰 hrobový

🇨🇳 墓穴的

🇸🇮 grobnica

🇮🇸 grafar

🇰🇿 қабірлік

🇬🇪 საფლავის

🇦🇿 məzar

🇲🇽 sepulcral

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,357, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.