ob.

ob.

A small ob. appears on a historical tombstone.

Definition
  1. Noun (abbreviation):
    • A Latin abbreviation for "obiit": In formal or historical contexts, "ob." is an abbreviation of the Latin word obiit, meaning "he/she died." It is used in genealogical records, obituaries, or inscriptions to indicate a person's date of death.
    • A short form for "obituary": In informal or journalistic usage, "ob." can stand for "obituary," a notice of a person's death, often published in newspapers.
Usage Examples
  • (The abbreviation indicates that John Smith died in the year 1845.)
  • (She wrote the obituary for the local newspaper.)
Advanced Usage
  • "ob." in genealogical records: Often paired with "b." (born) to show a lifespan.
    • The family tree lists: Mary Jones, b. 1800, ob. 1878. (Mary Jones was born in 1800 and died in 1878.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Obiit (Latin verb): "he/she died" — the full word from which "ob." is derived.

    • The Latin text states: "obiit anno Domini 1620." (He died in the year of the Lord 1620.)

  • Obituary (noun): a published notice of a death, often including a brief biography.

    • The obituary for the mayor was printed in the morning paper. (A notice of the mayor's death and life details.)
Synonyms
  • Deceased: a person who has died (used in formal contexts).
  • Death notice: a formal announcement of someone's death.
Related Idioms