What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
columbarium
Example
The family visited the columbarium to pay their respects to their loved one. [columbarium: noun]
Example
She chose to have her ashes placed in the columbarium after she passed away. [columbarium: noun]
ossuary
Example
Archaeologists discovered an ossuary containing ancient human bones at the excavation site. [ossuary: noun]
Example
The catacombs were filled with ossuaries holding the remains of countless individuals. [ossuaries: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Columbarium is more commonly used than ossuary in everyday language, especially in the context of cremation and memorialization. Ossuary is less common and tends to be used in more specific archaeological or historical discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between columbarium and ossuary?
While columbarium is associated with a formal and respectful tone, ossuary can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the subject matter.
