LYCH GATE Meaning and
Definition
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A lych gate is a traditional architectural feature found predominantly in English churchyards. It typically consists of a covered gateway or entrance, often positioned at the entrance to a churchyard or cemetery. The term "lych" originates from the Old English word for corpse or body, reflecting its historical function as a shelter or resting place for a casket during a funeral service.
The lych gate's design often includes a gabled or sloping roof supported by wooden or stone pillars. It serves as a transitional space between the secular world and the sacred ground of the churchyard, symbolizing the transition between life and death. Lych gates sometimes feature intricate woodwork or carvings, adding visual interest and embodying cultural or religious motifs.
Traditionally, lych gates played a practical role in funeral processions, as pallbearers would temporarily rest the casket within the structure before proceeding with the burial rites. In addition to its functional purpose, the lych gate also serves as a symbolic marker, demarcating the sacred grounds of the churchyard from the outside world, providing a sense of reverence and separation.
Today, while lych gates may no longer serve the same practical function in funeral processions, they continue to be cherished architectural features and symbols of tradition, heritage, and spirituality. Many communities recognize the historical significance of their lych gates and maintain their upkeep to preserve the cultural and historical legacy they represent.
Common Misspellings for LYCH GATE
- kych gate
- pych gate
- oych gate
- ltch gate
- lgch gate
- lhch gate
- luch gate
- l7ch gate
- l6ch gate
- lyxh gate
- lyvh gate
- lyfh gate
- lydh gate
- lycg gate
- lycb gate
- lycn gate
- lycj gate
- lycu gate
- lycy gate
Etymology of LYCH GATE
The word "Lych gate" has its origins in the Old English language.
The first part of the word, "lych", is believed to derive from the Old English word "lic", which means "body" or "corpse". This term is related to the German word "Leiche" with the same meaning. In medieval times, a lych gate was often the entrance to a churchyard or cemetery, where funeral processions would gather and the deceased would rest before burial. It is thought that the lych gate was initially associated with sheltering the body or coffin before the funeral.
The second part, "gate", comes from Old English "geat", which simply means "gate" or "entrance". The lych gate would usually be a covered structure or roofed gateway marking the entrance to the churchyard, often with space for mourners and a bier to rest.
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