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; see 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

I was glad when it was over; our own simple service, read by the merest layman, would surely have been a more fitting obsequy.

From Border and Bastille by Lawrence, George A. (George Alfred)

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

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

From this session interdict Every fowl of tyrant wing, Save the eagle, feather'd king: Keep the obsequy so strict.

From The Phoenix and the Turtle by Shakespeare, William

Thou wast not keen To insult in present of his corse, like these, The insensate general and his brother-king, Who came with proud intent to cast him forth Foully debarred from lawful obsequy.

From The Seven Plays in English Verse by Sophocles