coffin

word

/ˈkɔfɪn/
KAW-fin
/kˈɒfɪn/
KO-fin

Definition

A coffin is a box in which a dead person's body is placed for burial or cremation. It is usually made of wood or metal and is used at funerals.

Usage & Nuances

A neutral, standard word, especially in funerals, history, horror, and crime contexts. In some contexts, 'casket' is used instead, especially in American English; 'coffin' often suggests the traditional tapered shape. Common phrases include 'in a coffin' and 'nail the coffin shut'.

Example Sentences

People carried the coffin into the church.

basic

The body was placed in a coffin.

basic

The coffin was made of dark wood.

basic

In the movie, the vampire slept in a coffin during the day.

natural

They chose a simple coffin for the funeral.

natural

The final scene shows the lid of the coffin slowly closing.

natural