cremate

verb

cre·​mate ˈkrē-ˌmāt  kri-ˈmāt 

cremated; cremating

transitive verb

: to subject to cremation

especially : to reduce (a dead body) to mostly tiny bits of bones resembling ash through exposure to flame and intense heat followed by pulverization of bone fragments

cremate a dead body

Examples of cremate in a Sentence

He wants to be cremated when he dies.

Recent Examples on the Web

Under the new law, crematories will be required to notify my office and the local coroner if remains have not been cremated within 30 days of delivery. — Susana Mendoza, Chicago Tribune, 8 Sep. 2026

Per Sheldon’s wish, he was cremated and the family will hold a private service. — Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 8 Sep. 2026

At least one smokejumper has been cremated in a jumper T-shirt. — M. R. O’Connor, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026

The issue is particularly sensitive in Nepal, a predominantly Hindu nation where the dead are traditionally cremated. — ABC News, 30 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin crematus, past participle of cremare to burn up, cremate

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

cremate

verb

cre·​mate ˈkrē-ˌmāt  kri-ˈmāt 

cremated; cremating

: to burn (as a dead body) to ashes

cremation

kri-ˈmā-shən 

noun

Medical Definition

cremate

transitive verb

cre·​mate ˈkrē-ˌmāt  kri-ˈ 

cremated; cremating

: to subject to cremation

especially : to reduce (a dead body) to mostly tiny bits of bones resembling ash through exposure to flame and intense heat followed by pulverization of bone fragments