Catafalque

Pronunciation: /ˈkætəˌfælk/

Definitions of catafalque

noun a raised structure on which a body lies in state during a funeral

Example Sentences

A1 I saw a big catafalque at the funeral.

A2 The catafalque was adorned with flowers and candles.

B1 The catafalque was draped in black velvet, a sign of mourning.

B2 The catafalque stood tall in the center of the room, surrounded by mourners.

C1 The catafalque was intricately carved and decorated, a symbol of respect for the deceased.

C2 The catafalque was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, a fitting tribute to the departed soul.

Examples of catafalque in a Sentence

formal The elaborate catafalque was constructed for the state funeral of the esteemed leader.

informal They set up a fancy catafalque for the funeral service.

slang Check out the cool catafalque they built for the big shot's funeral.

figurative The abandoned factory stood like a catafalque of the once thriving industry.

Grammatical Forms of catafalque

• plural: catafalques
• comparative: more catafalque
• superlative: most catafalque
• present tense: catafalque
• future tense: will catafalque
• perfect tense: has catafalqued
• continuous tense: is catafalquing
• singular: catafalque
• positive degree: catafalque
• infinitive: to catafalque
• gerund: catafalquing
• participle: catafalqued

Origin and Evolution of catafalque

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'catafalque' originated from the Italian word 'catafalco' which was derived from the Latin word 'catafalcum'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe a raised platform to support a coffin during a funeral, the meaning of 'catafalque' has evolved to refer to any elaborate structure used for a similar purpose, such as a temporary monument or structure for a deceased person.