Definition

A type of cloth used to wrap a dead body, often referred to in the context of burial or funerals.

Example

The ancient Egyptians used cerements to prepare their dead for the afterlife.

Conversation

I just read about how ancient cultures used cerements for burial.

Yeah, it’s interesting how they would wrap their dead in them.

I wonder if they believed it helped in the afterlife.

Probably! It shows how important rituals were to them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cerement is derived from the Latin 'ceramentum' (meaning wax), which comes from 'cera' (meaning wax) and the suffix '-mentum' (indicating a means or result). The word refers to a waxy substance used in burial practices, particularly in the context of wrapping the dead.

Memory Tip

Think of 'wax' ('cera') being used to wrap something, which helps you remember that 'cerement' refers to a material used in burial.

Visually Confused Words