Definition

A structure, often found at the entrance of a churchyard, that provides shelter for a coffin or mourners during a funeral.

Example

The funeral procession paused under the lichgate to shield themselves from the rain.

Conversation

Have you seen the old lichgate by the church?

Yeah, I passed by it yesterday; it's really beautiful.

I love how it adds character to the area.

Absolutely! It makes the place feel so historic.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Lichgate** → The word is formed from "lich" (from Old English *lic*, meaning body) and "gate" (from Old English *geat*, meaning opening or gate). A lichgate is a gate or structure at a churchyard where a coffin is placed before burial, literally meaning a gate for a body.

Memory Tip

Imagine a gate ('gate') where a body ('lich') is placed before burial — that's what a lichgate is.

Visually Confused Words