# urn

/ˈɝn/ (US) · /ˈɜːn/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/urn
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a large vase or container, usually with a base. It is often used to hold the ashes of a person who has died or to serve large amounts of tea or coffee.

For teachers: a large decorative vase or vessel, typically with a pedestal or foot. Often used for funerary purposes to hold cremated remains or as a large-capacity container for dispensing hot beverages.

## Examples

- The family kept the bronze urn on the mantelpiece.
- During the conference, the hotel staff placed a large silver urn of hot coffee in the lobby for the guests.
- The museum's collection includes several Greek funerary urns, each intricately painted with scenes depicting the journey to the underworld.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the context of cremation or large-scale catering.

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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.