What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wake
Example
We attended the wake of our neighbor who passed away last week. [wake: noun]
Example
The family stayed up all night for the wake of their loved one. [wake: noun]
Example
She decided to wake her father's body until the morning. [wake: verb]
funeral
Example
The funeral service will be held at the church next Saturday. [funeral: noun]
Example
The family followed the hearse in the funeral procession to the cemetery. [funeral: noun]
Example
They decided to cremate their loved one instead of having a traditional funeral. [funeral: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Funeral is a more common word than wake in everyday language, as it refers to the formal ceremony or service held to honor the deceased person. Wake is less common and refers to the informal gathering that takes place before the funeral.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wake and funeral?
Funeral is a more formal word than wake, as it is associated with religious or cultural rituals and is held in a specific location, such as a church or funeral home. Wake is more informal and can take place in a variety of locations.
