epicedium

A poet reads an epicedium at a solemn memorial gathering.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A funeral song or poem: "epicedium" refers to a poem or song composed in honor of a deceased person, typically intended to be sung or recited at a funeral or memorial occasion.

Usage Examples

• (A funeral poem honoring the deceased.)
• (A song or poem for the dead.)

Advanced Usage

• "to write an epicedium": to compose a commemorative poem for someone who has died.
  • The grieving widow commissioned an epicedium to capture the essence of her husband's life. (She requested a funeral poem.)

Variants and Related Words

• Epicedial (adj): relating to or characteristic of an epicedium.

  • The epicedial verses were filled with sorrow and praise. (The verses were like a funeral poem.)

• Epicedium (n, plural: epicedia): the plural form when referring to multiple funeral poems.

  • The anthology contained several epicedia from different cultures. (Multiple funeral poems.)

Synonyms

• Elegy: a mournful poem, especially one for the dead.
• Dirge: a lament for the dead, often sung or performed.
• Threnody: a song of lamentation for the dead.

Related Idioms

• Sing an epicedium: to perform or recite a funeral poem.
  • The chorus sang an epicedium as the coffin was lowered. (They performed a funeral song.)

Notes on Usage

• The word "epicedium" is a specialized term, primarily used in literary or historical contexts. It is not common in everyday speech.