Urn
/ɜːrn/noun
A large vase or vessel, often used for holding ashes or as a decorative container.
Did you know?Urn entered English through Latin and French as a word for a vessel, and its long history is why it can feel both funerary and ceremonial at once.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
urna
“a jar, vessel, or cinerary urn”
Old French
Old French
urne
“a vessel or jar, especially for holding ashes or lots”
Middle English
English
urne
“a funerary vessel or container”
Modern English
English
urn
“a large container, especially for ashes or ceremonial use”