Definition of Epitaph

Epigram

EPITAPH noun

	An inscription on a tomb, showing that virtues acquired by death have a retroactive effect. Following is a touching example: Here lie the bones of Parson Platt, Wise, pious, humble and all that, Who showed us life as all should live it; Let that be said -- and God forgive it!

		definition from: *The Devil's Dictionary* by Ambrose Bierce, 1911

Erudition

Regular definition:

EPITAPH:
?ep?t?:f n. words written in memory of a person who has died, esp. as a tomb inscription. [ME f. OF epitaphe f. L epitaphium f. Gk epitaphion funeral oration (as EPI-, taphos tomb)]

Last updated: 9/3/2011 12:48:30