Definition

A person who carries or helps to carry a coffin during a funeral.

Example

The pallbearers carefully lifted the coffin and carried it to the grave.

Conversation

Did you hear that Jake is going to be a pallbearer at his grandfather's funeral?

Yeah, that's a big responsibility for him.

I hope he feels supported by everyone there.

I'm sure he will; it's a way to honor his grandfather.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pallbearer → It is formed from "pall" (from Latin *pallium*, meaning a cloak or covering) and "bearer" (from Old English *beran*, meaning to carry). A pallbearer is someone who carries the pall, or covering, over a coffin during a funeral.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'carrying' ('bearer') a 'covering' ('pall') over a coffin — that’s why a pallbearer is someone who carries the pall.

Visually Confused Words