funereal

UK: fjuːˈnɪəriəl | US: fjuːˈnɪriəl

Definition

  1. adj. relating to or suitable for a funeral; mournful or dismal in character

Structure
funer <funeral>eal <adjective suffix>funer <funeral>eal <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word funereal originates from the Latin funus (death, funeral), combined with the adjectival suffix -eal (a variant of -al). It entered English in the early 17th century, retaining its solemn association with death and mourning. The suffix -eal reinforces its descriptive nature, emphasizing a quality akin to a funeral—gloomy, somber, or grave.

Examples

  1. The room was draped in funereal black for the memorial service.

  2. His funereal tone made the conversation unbearably heavy.

  3. The gray skies gave the landscape a funereal atmosphere.

  4. She wore a funereal dress to the solemn occasion.

  5. The slow, funereal music echoed through the cathedral.