KIRKYARD Meaning and
Definition
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Kirkyard is a term derived from Scottish dialect that refers to a churchyard or cemetery. It refers to a burial ground that is typically associated with a place of worship, such as a church or a kirk. The term is commonly used in Scotland and is often seen as a quaint or endearing way to describe a graveyard.
Kirkyards have a long history and have been an integral part of communities for centuries. They are usually located adjacent to a place of worship, serving as the final resting place for members of the congregation and often other notable individuals. Kirkyards are characterized by rows of gravestones or markers that mark the resting places of the deceased.
These burial grounds often hold historical and cultural significance, housing ancient tombs, mausoleums, and memorials that provide insight into the local history and heritage of the area. Kirkyards can be peaceful and introspective spaces, offering a sense of tranquility and reflection to those who visit.
The term "Kirkyard" specifically denotes the connection between the burial ground and the place of worship, highlighting the intrinsic relationship between spirituality, mortality, and the continuity of life. It is an acknowledgment of the deep symbolism and the sacred nature of these grounds, where the living pay their respects and remember those who have passed away.
Common Misspellings for KIRKYARD
- jirkyard
- mirkyard
- lirkyard
- oirkyard
- iirkyard
- kurkyard
- kjrkyard
- kkrkyard
- korkyard
- k9rkyard
- k8rkyard
- kiekyard
- kidkyard
- kifkyard
- kitkyard
- ki5kyard
- ki4kyard
- kirjyard
- kirmyard
Etymology of KIRKYARD
The word "Kirkyard" is derived from two separate elements: "kirk" and "yard".
The term "kirk" is a Scottish and Northern English dialect word that means "church". It is derived from the Middle English word "kirk(e)" which, in turn, comes from the Old Norse word "kirkja" meaning "church". The Norse influence on the language of Scotland is due to the Viking invasions and settlements in the region during the Middle Ages.
The word "yard", on the other hand, has Old English origins and originally referred to an enclosed space or courtyard. Over time, this term expanded in meaning, and in the context of a church, it came to denote the area surrounding the church building where burials took place.
Therefore, combining "kirk" and "yard" gives us the word "Kirkyard", which refers to the burial ground or cemetery adjacent to a church.
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