Cenotaph

C2 16+
Pronunciation Definitions Examples Grammatical Forms Origin and Evolution

Pronunciation: /ˈsɛnəˌtæf/

Definitions of cenotaph

noun a structure that serves as a memorial to the dead, especially to those who died in a war

Example Sentences

A1 A cenotaph is a monument erected in honor of a person or group of people whose remains are elsewhere.

A2 Tourists often visit cenotaphs to pay their respects to fallen soldiers.

B1 The cenotaph in the town square is a focal point for ceremonies on Remembrance Day.

B2 The elaborate design of the cenotaph reflects the importance of honoring those who have served in the military.

C1 The architect's vision for the cenotaph incorporated elements of both traditional and modern design.

C2 The inscription on the cenotaph serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for their country.

Examples of cenotaph in a Sentence

formal The cenotaph in the town square is a solemn reminder of those who gave their lives in war.

informal Let's meet at the cenotaph before heading to the park.

slang That new skate park is like a cenotaph for all the broken boards and wheels.

figurative Her old diary served as a cenotaph for her past memories.

Grammatical Forms of cenotaph

plural

cenotaphs

comparative

more cenotaph

superlative

most cenotaph

present tense

cenotaph

future tense

will cenotaph

perfect tense

has cenotaphed

continuous tense

is cenotaphing

singular

cenotaph

positive degree

cenotaph

infinitive

to cenotaph

gerund

cenotaphing

participle

cenotaphed

Origin and Evolution of cenotaph

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Greek
Story behind the word: The word 'cenotaph' originates from the Greek words 'kenos' meaning 'empty' and 'taphos' meaning 'tomb'. It was used to refer to a monument erected in honor of a person or group of people whose remains are elsewhere.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the term 'cenotaph' has come to be used more broadly to refer to any empty tomb or monument erected in memory of a person or group of people, regardless of the presence of actual remains.