The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

cremate

IPA:

Dictionary definition of cremate

To reduce a deceased person's body to ashes through the application of intense heat, typically in a specifically designed furnace known as a crematorium.
"The family decided to cremate their loved one according to their wishes."

Detailed meaning of cremate

Cremation is an alternative to traditional burial and is often chosen for various reasons, including cultural, religious, or personal preferences. During cremation, the body is placed in a cremation chamber, where it is exposed to temperatures ranging from 1,400 to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit (760 to 1,093 degrees Celsius). The high heat breaks down the body's organic matter, leaving behind bone fragments. These fragments are further processed into fine ashes, known as cremated remains or cremains, which are usually placed in an urn and given to the family of the deceased. Cremation is a widely accepted method of handling human remains and is practiced in many cultures and societies around the world.

Example sentences containing cremate

1. In ancient cultures, they would cremate their dead as a sign of respect.
2. The family decided to cremate him after he passed, in accordance with his wishes.
3. You should always ask the person's preference before you choose to cremate or bury.
4. After much contemplation, she decided to cremate her beloved pet bird.
5. Is it expensive to cremate someone compared to a traditional burial?
6. Many people cremate their loved ones and keep their ashes in urns.

History and etymology of cremate

The verb 'cremate' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'cremare,' which, interestingly, shares its root with another Latin term, 'crepitare,' meaning 'to crackle' or 'to burn.' This linguistic connection underscores the concept of intense heat and combustion associated with cremation. The addition of the suffix '-ate' in 'cremate' serves as a verb-forming element, implying the action of reducing a deceased person's body to ashes through the application of extreme heat. Thus, the etymology of 'cremate' underscores the historical and cultural practice of using fire to transform human remains into ashes, a process that has been employed for centuries and is facilitated by specialized furnaces known as crematoriums.

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Further usage examples of cremate

1. They plan to cremate him and scatter his ashes in the sea.
2. Some societies, such as the Hindus, typically cremate their dead.
3. Can you tell me more about the process used to cremate a body?
4. In certain circumstances, it is more practical to cremate than to bury.
5. Would you prefer that they cremate you when the time comes?
6. We have the option to cremate and that is what we will do.
7. It's interesting how different cultures choose either to cremate or to bury.
8. When she dies, she wants to cremate her body and scatter her ashes in her favorite park.
9. To cremate or not to cremate, that is the question many families grapple with.
10. His wish was for his family to cremate him and scatter his ashes at sea.
11. Can you please advise me on the proper procedure to cremate a loved one?
12. If I decide to cremate my body, what will happen to the ashes?
13. Is it environmentally friendly to cremate or is it better to opt for burial?
14. The family's decision to cremate her was a tough one, but they ultimately respected her wishes.