Langimage
English

coffin

|cof/fin|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈkɔːfɪn/

🇬🇧

/ˈkɒfɪn/

box for a dead body

Etymology
Etymology Information

'coffin' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'cofin,' where 'cofin' meant 'basket.'

Historical Evolution

'cofin' changed from the Old French word 'cofin' and eventually became the modern English word 'coffin'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'basket,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a box for a dead body.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a long, narrow box, typically of wood, in which a dead body is buried or cremated.

The coffin was lowered into the grave.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to place a dead body in a coffin.

They coffined the body before the funeral.

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39