Langimage
English

urn

|urn|

B2

🇺🇸

/ɜrn/

🇬🇧

/ɜːn/

container for ashes or liquids

Etymology
Etymology Information

'urn' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'urna', where 'urna' meant 'a vessel or jar'.

Historical Evolution

'urna' transformed into the Old French word 'urne', and eventually became the modern English word 'urn'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a vessel or jar', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a container for ashes or liquids'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a vase, often with a footed base, used for storing the ashes of a cremated person.

The family placed the urn on the mantelpiece.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a large metal container with a tap, used for making and serving tea or coffee in quantity.

The tea was served from a large silver urn.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/07/15 06:20