# obituary

/oʊˈbɪtʃuˌɛɹi/ (US) · /ɒbˈɪtʃɔːɹˌi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/obituary
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a short article in a newspaper that tells people about someone who has recently died. It usually includes a summary of their life and achievements.

For teachers: a published notice of a death, typically accompanied by a brief biographical account of the deceased person's life and career.

## Examples

- I read his obituary in the local paper this morning.
- The famous actress's obituary highlighted her early work in theatre before she became a Hollywood star.
- Writing a meaningful obituary requires a delicate balance between factual reporting of a person's life and a respectful tribute to their lasting legacy within the community.

## Usage notes

- Often takes the preposition 'for' or 'of' when identifying the subject.

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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.