Meaning & Definition of word "Coffin"

to

arrow

    Coffin

    /ˈkɔːfɪn/

    noun:

    • 1. A box or chest, typically made of wood, in which a dead body is placed for burial.
      • Example: The family chose a beautiful oak coffin for the ceremony.
    • 2. A receptacle for storage, especially one used for the burial of a deceased person.
      • Example: The ancient Egyptians often placed valuable items in the coffin with the mummy.
    • 3. Something that resembles a coffin in shape or function.
      • Example: The abandoned car sat like a coffin in the middle of the field.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Old French 'coffyn', diminutive of 'coffre' meaning chest or box.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    six feet under:

    Refers to being dead and buried.

    coffin nail:

    A slang term for a cigarette, referencing its fatal impact on health.

    drop like a stone:

    To die suddenly.

    Related Words

    funeral:

    A ceremony for honoring and burying a deceased person.

    burial:

    The act of placing a dead body in the ground.

    cremation:

    The act of burning a dead body to ashes.

    Slang Meanings of coffin

    Meaning: Coffin dodger

    Example Sentence: That old man is a coffin dodger, still riding his motorcycle at his age.

    Meaning: In the coffin

    Example Sentence: After the scandal, he was out of the business, dead in the coffin.