obsequy

noun

ob·​se·​quy ˈäb-sə-kwē How to pronounce obsequy (audio)
plural obsequies
: a funeral or burial rite
usually used in plural

Example Sentences

the murder victim's father was the chief mourner at the obsequies

Word History

Etymology

Middle English obsequie, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin obsequiae (plural), alteration of Latin exsequiae, from exsequi to follow out, execute — more at execution

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of obsequy was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near obsequy

Cite this Entry

“Obsequy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/obsequy. Accessed 21 Mar. 2023.

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