Pronunciation: [tˈuːmstə͡ʊn] (IPA) 
The word "tombstone" is spelled as /tum-stohn/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound, followed by the "m" consonant. The second syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound and the letters "b" and "s" are silent. The word is commonly used to refer to a marker used to identify a grave, dating back to the Roman era. The origin of the word is from the Old English word "tūn-stān" which means "enclosure-stone".
A tombstone is a noun that refers to a monument or gravestone, usually made of stone, placed at the head of a grave to commemorate and honor a deceased person. It serves as a physical marker or memorial that provides identification of the burial site and serves as a lasting tribute to the individual buried beneath it.
Typically, a tombstone features an inscription that includes the name, birth and death dates, and sometimes additional information such as family relations, religious symbols, or epitaphs. The text on the tombstone may reflect the beliefs, achievements, or qualities of the deceased, allowing visitors and future generations to learn more about their life and legacy.
Tombstones come in various sizes, shapes, and designs, ranging from simple and plain to elaborate and ornate, depending on cultural, religious, or personal preferences. They are usually made of durable materials such as granite, marble, or limestone, ensuring their longevity and resistance to weathering over time.
Apart from their commemorative purpose, tombstones also serve as a way for individuals to grieve and pay respects to their loved ones. They are often found in cemeteries or burial grounds, forming a landscape of remembrance that preserves the memory of those who have passed away. Tombstones play a significant role in preserving history and genealogy, as they provide valuable information for research and allow individuals to connect with their ancestral roots.
A stone with an inscription placed over a grave in memory of the deceased.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "tombstone" originated from the combination of two words: "tomb" and "stone".
The word "tomb" has its roots in the Old English word "tymb", which meant "burial mound" or "grave". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "tumbaz" and the Old Norse word "tumr". These words ultimately derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*dembh-", meaning "to bury".
The word "stone" originated from the Old English word "stan", which meant "stone" or "rock". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*stainaz" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*stai-no-", also meaning "stone" or "rock".
