Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
ossuary
noun
/ˈɒs.juː.əri/
Definition
A container or room used for storing human skeletal remains.
Examples
- The ossuary of bone fragments revealed insights into the burial practices of ancient civilizations.
- Visitors can explore the famous Catacombs of Paris, which house an extensive ossuary.
- Upon entering the chapel, we were struck by the sight of the ossuary adorned with intricate designs made from human bones.
Meaning
An ossuary is typically a burial site for human bones, often found in churches or cemeteries where space for traditional burials is limited.
Synonyms
- Bone vault
- Charnel house
- Mortuary
