# elegy

/ˈɛɫəˌdʒi/ (US) · /ˈɛlɪdʒi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/elegy
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a poem or piece of music that is written to remember and honor someone who has died. It usually has a sad or serious tone.

For teachers: a poem or musical composition expressing sorrow for the dead. Often characterized by a somber or reflective tone and a formal structure.

## Examples

- The choir performed a beautiful elegy for the late composer.
- The poet wrote a moving elegy to honor his friend, capturing the quiet grief of the entire community.
- While many elegies focus on the pain of loss, this particular work seeks to celebrate the subject's life through a series of vivid, nostalgic images.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.