obsequy

American  

[ob-si-kwee] / ˈɒb sɪ kwi /

noun

plural

obsequies

1. a funeral rite or ceremony.

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Etymology

Origin of obsequy

1350–1400; Middle English obseque < Middle French < Late Latin obsequiae, alteration (by confusion with exsequiae funeral rites) of obsequia, plural of Latin obsequium; obsequious

Explanation

Obsequies are the traditional ceremonies that happen at a funeral. Your great-grandmother's obsequies may include prayers, poetry readings, and songs sung by the mourners. This word is most often used in its plural form, obsequies, to mean "funeral rites." All the traditions associated with a person's death, funeral, or burial, as well as any rituals of mourning, can be described as obsequies. Sometimes these are religious, like singing particular hymns or reciting specific prayers, while others are more personal. The Latin source of obsequy is obsequium, "dutiful compliance," influenced by exsequiae, "funeral rites."

Example Sentences

"Whether derided or praised," the historian Robert Rotberg has written, "he remains an object of calumny, obsequy and inquiry."

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2015

But more of that hereafter: take it hence And let the ladyes guarde it tyll it be Interrd with publique sollempe obsequy.

From A Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 3 by Bullen, A. H. (Arthur Henry)

And "You knew Mr. Bowen was no longer living?" she said, with fit obsequy of tone.

From Indian Summer by Howells, William Dean

Live all and love together, and thereby You give your father a rich obsequy.

From Sir Thomas More by Shakespeare (spurious and doubtful works)

The second day after his obsequy was done reverently, and on his body laid a tomb of stone and his banner hanging over him.

From Chronicle and Romance (The Harvard Classics Series) by Jean Froissart, Thomas Malory, Raphael Holinshed