Definition

Relating to or suitable for a place where dead bodies are kept, often associated with burial or death.

Example

The charnel house was a somber reminder of the past.

Conversation

Did you see that old building by the cemetery?

Yeah, it looks really charnel and eerie at night.

I wonder what it was used for, it gives off such a strange vibe.

Maybe it was meant to be a memorial, but now it just feels haunted.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A place where the bodies or bones of dead people are kept, often in a building or chamber.

Example

The ancient charnel house was filled with the remains of those who had passed away long ago.

Conversation

Have you heard about that old charnel house on the edge of town?

Yeah, I heard it's really creepy and abandoned now.

I read that some people think it's haunted because of its history as a charnel site.

Root Explanation

Charnel → The word originates from Old French *charnele*, which is derived from *char*, meaning flesh. It refers to a place associated with the storage of flesh, particularly bones or remains, hence a charnel house is a building where human skeletal remains are stored.

Memory Tip

Think of 'flesh' ('char') to remember that a charnel house is related to the storage of human remains.

Visually Confused Words