Definition

A ceremony or ritual held to honor someone who has died, often involving burial or cremation.

Example

The family gathered to pay their respects during the obsequy for their beloved grandmother.

Conversation

Did you hear about the obsequy for Mr. Thompson this weekend?

Yeah, I heard it will be a really nice ceremony.

I hope they share some fond memories during the obsequy.

Me too! It will be a great way to honor him.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Obsequy is derived from the Latin "obsequium" (meaning compliance or service), which itself comes from "ob" (meaning to) and "sequi" (meaning to follow). The term originally referred to the act of following or complying with the wishes of the deceased, particularly in the context of funeral rites. Thus, obsequy refers to the ceremonial observances or rites performed in honor of the dead.

Memory Tip

Think of 'following' ('sequi') the wishes of someone who has passed away ('ob-') — that's why obsequy means the rites performed for the deceased.

Visually Confused Words