Definition: Epitaph is a memorial or honorific inscription to a deceased person on an obelisk or monument. It marks the person's life and contributions, often with the words "To whom it may concern" at the bottom. The epitaph was originally used in Roman times as an offering of respect towards dead soldiers.
The word 'epitaph' is a Latin word that means to bury someone, especially for them or their family. It also has various meanings depending on context:
1.
A memorial:
This can mean both a physical memorial (e.g., a tombstone) and a written one. For the former, it would be more fitting for an obelisk or monument, as the epitaph is typically inscribed on top of this. The inscription might include personal words or comments.
2.
A religious marker:
When used metaphorically, "epitaph" can refer to any kind of religious marker. In Christianity, the epitaph could be a wall plaque in a church that commemorates someone's life and accomplishments.
3.
An honorific:
The term refers specifically to the inscription on an obelisk or monument, often placed by the deceased person. It is typically inscribed with personal words and comments that express their thoughts or wishes for them.
In summary, the epitaph is a memorial or honorific marking of a deceased person's life and contributions. Depending on context, it can be a physical memorial (a tombstone) or written one, but its main function is to recognize the individual's legacy and mark their place in history.
epitaph