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funereal

adjective

/fjuːˈnɪəriəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of funereal

Solemn, mournful, or reminiscent of a funeral or the rituals associated with death and grief.
"His funereal expression conveyed his grief and sorrow."

Detailed meaning of funereal

When an atmosphere, appearance, or mood is described as funereal, it implies a somber and grave quality, often associated with mourning, sorrow, or a sense of foreboding. This term conveys a feeling of deep sadness and seriousness, evoking the somber atmosphere typically found at funerals or during moments of profound loss. For example, the dimly lit, hushed ambiance of a church during a memorial service might be described as funereal, or a person's slow and measured speech at a tragic event can carry a funereal tone. "Funereal" underscores the idea of a mournful and solemn quality, often related to death and grief.

Example sentences containing funereal

1. The atmosphere in the room was funereal after the grim announcement.
2. Dressed in funereal black, she sat alone at the back of the church.
3. The funereal music set a somber tone for the ceremony.
4. His funereal expression suggested he had received some devastating news.
5. Despite the bright sunshine outside, the mood inside the house was funereal.
6. The funereal procession moved slowly through the streets of the small town.

History and etymology of funereal

The adjective 'funereal' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'funereus,' which is derived from 'funus,' meaning 'funeral' or 'burial.' In Latin, 'funereus' described anything related to or reminiscent of a funeral, including the rituals and ceremonies associated with death and grief. Over time, the term evolved into the English word 'funereal,' which signifies a solemn, mournful, or somber quality, often reminiscent of the atmosphere surrounding funerals or the emotions tied to loss and grief. When something is described as 'funereal,' it implies a sense of seriousness, sadness, and reverence. The etymology of 'funereal' underscores its historical connection to the rituals and customs surrounding death, emphasizing its role in evoking the somber and mournful aspects of life.

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Further usage examples of funereal

1. The soldiers maintained funereal solemnity as they carried their fallen comrade.
2. Her voice had a funereal tone when she spoke about her late husband.
3. The funereal gloom that had fallen over the village lasted for days.
4. His poem had a funereal quality, reflecting on mortality and loss.
5. The funereal bells tolled in the distance, marking the end of the service.
6. After the disaster, a funereal silence fell over the city.
7. The funereal decorations at the memorial service were understated yet elegant.
8. The funereal attire of the mourners contrasted sharply with the bright spring day.
9. His funereal gaze was fixed on the gravestone.
10. Despite the party decorations, the atmosphere remained funereal.
11. The news of the tragedy spread a funereal pall over the festivities.
12. The funereal dirge played softly as the mourners gathered.
13. His speech had a funereal solemnity, bringing tears to many eyes.
14. She wore a funereal veil to the service, in accordance with tradition.