How Do You Spell COLUMBARIA?

Pronunciation: [kˌɒləmbˈe͡əɹi͡ə] (IPA)

Columbaria is a plural noun referring to a series of niches or compartments specifically designed to house cremation urns. In terms of pronunciation, Columbaria is spelled in IPA as /kəˌlʌmˈbɛərɪə/ with stress on the second syllable. The word comes from the Latin word "columbarium" which means "dovecote". Columbaria can be found in various places like cemeteries or mausoleums and they usually serve as a final resting place for the ashes of the deceased.

COLUMBARIA Meaning and Definition

  1. Columbaria are architectural structures specifically designed to house and contain a collection of small compartments known as niches. These niches are used to store the cremated remains of deceased individuals. The word "columbaria" is derived from the Latin word "columbarium," which means "dovecote," reflecting the original design of these structures resembling pigeon or dove housing.

    Columbaria can be found in various settings, such as cemeteries, mausoleums, churches, or dedicated buildings. They provide a respectful and dignified final resting place for cremated remains, serving as an alternative to traditional in-ground burial. Each niche within a columbarium can accommodate urns, ashes, memorabilia, or other personal belongings of the deceased.

    These structures often feature elaborate architectural designs with rows or tiers of niches arranged in a symmetrical manner. They may be constructed using various materials, including stone, marble, concrete, or even glass, depending on the desired aesthetic and functionality.

    Columbaria offer a sense of community for mourning families and individuals, as they allow multiple niches to be placed together. They provide a centralized location for family members to visit and pay respects to their loved ones, creating a serene and contemplative environment for reflection and remembrance.

    Overall, columbaria serve as a dedicated space to honor and remember the departed while providing a practical solution for the storage of cremated remains in a respectful manner.

Common Misspellings for COLUMBARIA

Etymology of COLUMBARIA

The word "columbaria" is derived from the Latin word "columbarium", which translates to "dovecote" or "pigeon house". In ancient Rome, the term was used to refer to a specific type of above-ground structure or building that was often used for housing domestic pigeons. The usage of the term expanded over time to also include burial sites or tombs, where niches known as loculi were used to hold urns containing cremated remains. Today, "columbaria" primarily refers to structures or areas designated for the storage of cremated ashes or funerary urns.

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: