Word: Cremate
Definition: The verb "cremate" means to reduce a dead body to ashes by burning it in a special place called a crematorium. This is done instead of burying the body in the ground.
Usage Instructions: You can use "cremate" when talking about what happens to someone’s body after they die, especially if they choose not to have a traditional burial.
Example Sentence: After his passing, the family decided to cremate him, honoring his wishes.
Advanced Usage: In many cultures, cremation is a common practice. It can involve specific rituals or ceremonies before the actual cremation takes place. You might hear phrases like "cremation service" or "cremation ceremony."
Word Variants: - Cremation (noun): The process of cremating a body. - Example: The cremation took place on Friday. - Crematory (noun): A facility or place where bodies are cremated. - Example: They visited the crematory to arrange for the service.
Different Meanings: While "cremate" primarily refers to the process of burning a deceased body, in a more general sense, it can sometimes be used metaphorically to mean destroying something completely. For example, in a competitive context, one might say, "Our team cremated the competition," meaning they won decisively.
Synonyms: - Burn - Incinerate (though this is more technical and not typically used for bodies) - Reduce to ashes (phrase)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs using "cremate," but you might encounter phrases like "cremate the past," which means to let go of past experiences or memories completely.
Summary: "Cremate" is a specific term used to describe the act of burning a deceased person’s body until only ashes remain.