obsequies Hear it!

obsequies Definition

ob·se·quies (äb′si kwēz′)

plural noun

funeral rites or ceremonies

Etymology: < obs. sing. obsequy < OFr obseques < ML obsequiae (pl.) (< L obsequium, compliance: see obsequious), substituted for L exsequiae: see exequies

obsequies Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • perform: When they had performed the funeral obsequies, Al-Hasan arraigned the assassin before him.
  • attend: The new arrangements under the Eight Hours Act enabled the workmen of various pits to attend the final obsequies in large numbers.

Adjective modifier

  • funeral: When they had performed the funeral obsequies, Al-Hasan arraigned the assassin before him.
  • final: The new arrangements under the Eight Hours Act enabled the workmen of various pits to attend the final obsequies in large numbers.
obsequies Quotes

Call it not vain:öthey do not err Who say, that when the Poet dies, Mute Nature mourns her worshipper, And celebrates his obsequies.

—Scott, Sir Walter

Mighty victor, mighty lord, Low on his funeral couch he lies! No pitying heart, no eye, afford A tear to grace his obsequies.

—Gray,Thomas