coffin etymology

Etymology

The word "coffin" is derived from the Old French word "coffin," which itself originated from the Medieval Latin word "cophinus."

Meaning and Origin

In its original Latin form, "cophinus" referred to a basket or hamper used to carry various items. Over time, the term came to be used specifically for a box or container made of wicker or wood, typically used to transport or store goods or valuables.

In the Middle Ages, the word "coffin" began to be applied to a specific type of wooden box, often lined with lead or other materials, used for burying the dead. This usage likely arose from the resemblance between the rectangular shape and the lid of a coffin to a basket or hamper.

By the 14th century, the use of coffins for burials had become widespread in Europe. The term has continued to be used in this sense to the present day, referring to a box or casket made of wood, metal, or other materials, in which a corpse is placed for burial.

coffin relate terms

  • coffer

    Etymology Middle English coffer from Anglo French cofre from Medieval Latin cōphīn

  • coffin

    Etymology The word coffin is derived from the Old French word coffin which itself or

  • casket

    Etymology The word casket comes from the Old French word cassette which means a smal

  • sarcophagus

    Etymology Sarcophagus comes from the Ancient Greek words sarx flesh and phagein t

  • catafalque

    Etymology The word catafalque comes from the late Middle French word catafalque 15th

  • pall

    Etymology The word pall has its origins in the Latin word pallium meaning cloak or

  • bier

    Etymology The word bier originates from the Old English term bīere which in turn l

  • hearse

    Etymology The word hearse originates from the Middle English word herse which itsel

  • roof

    Etymology The word roof originates from the Old English word hrof which is derived

  • position

    Etymology From Middle English posicion from Anglo Norman posicion from Old French pos