What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
threnode
Example
The choir sang a beautiful threnode at the funeral. [threnode: noun]
Example
The poet wrote a threnode to express his sorrow over the loss of his friend. [threnode: noun]
dirge
Example
The church organist played a haunting dirge during the procession. [dirge: noun]
Example
The poet recited a dirge to honor the memory of his father. [dirge: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dirge is more commonly used than threnode in modern English, particularly in the context of music.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between threnode and dirge?
Both threnode and dirge are formal words that are appropriate for use in solemn occasions such as funerals or memorials.
