What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
columbarium
Example
The family decided to place their mother's urn in the columbarium at the cemetery. [columbarium: noun]
Example
Visitors can come to the columbarium to honor and remember their loved ones. [columbarium: noun]
crypt
Example
The royal family was laid to rest in the crypt beneath the cathedral. [crypt: noun]
Example
The funeral procession made its way to the crypt where the deceased would be interred. [crypt: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Crypt is more commonly used than columbarium in everyday language. Crypt is a widely recognized term, especially in religious contexts, while columbarium is less commonly known and used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between columbarium and crypt?
Both columbarium and crypt are formal terms, often used in specific contexts such as funeral services, cemetery discussions, or architectural descriptions.
