Churchyard

/ˈtʃɜːrtʃjɑːrd/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An area of land, often enclosed, adjoining a church, typically used for burials.

The old oak tree in the churchyard was a popular spot for local children to play.

A cemetery that is located next to a church, often containing graves of the church members.

They visited their ancestor's grave in the churchyard on the anniversary of his death.

A place of rest for the departed, often reflective and peaceful.

The pathway through the churchyard was lined with beautiful flowers in spring.

From the Old English 'cyrcegeard', where 'cyrce' (church) + 'geard' (yard).

rest in peace

A phrase commonly used to express hope that someone who has died is now at peace.

lay to rest

To bury or inter someone who has died.

grave

A site of burial for a deceased person.

tombstone

A stone marker placed over a grave.

memorial

Something established to commemorate a person or event.

God's waiting room

They joke that the churchyard is God's waiting room for the departed souls.

Six feet under

After a long discussion about life and death, he quipped that he'd be six feet under in the churchyard soon enough.