What Is the Distinction Between Headstone, Tombstone and Marker?

Have you ever questioned what the right term for a grave marker is? You're not alone.

When preparing a memorial, the terminology can become complex-- particularly when some words like headstone, tombstone as well as gravestone appear interchangeable.

When you dive into the origin of each term, nonetheless, you'll learn of the subtle differences that offer each their own distinct meaning.

Continue reading to learn where the terms headstone, tombstone and also gravestone originated from and how we utilize them in the stoneworking industry today.

What Is a Headstone?

The term headstone is utilized to describe an upright rock ahead of a grave. "Headstone" is the term we most typically use at Milano Monuments.

Before its origination in 1400, headstone was once a synonym for the term cornerstone. A keystone is a ceremonial stone that sits in the corner of a building, usually joining 2 outside wall surfaces with each other. Keystones were considerable for a few reasons: They had info about the structure being constructed as well as provided a reference factor for every single other rock used in the foundation of the structure.

Over time, the interpretation of headstone developed as well as at some point ended up being extra associated with grave pen than foundation. In its later usage, headstones were inscribed with essential details of someone that passed, like their name, birth as well as fatality days, and also from time to time a memorial quote or picture.

What Is a Tombstone?

Today, a gravestone shares the same meaning as a headstone. It's an upright rock that rests at the head of a grave-- oftentimes consisting of customized engraved or etched aspects.

Greek in beginning, the term tombstone was adapted by the English language in the mid-1500s and was made use of to describe the lid of a stone coffin. In Greek, the word "tymbos" implies "burial pile" while words "stia" indicates "pebble." From there, "tymbos" developed into "tomb" as well as "stia" became "stone.".

Headstone is not a common term we make use of at Milano Monuments, yet given that the evolution of its interpretation, it's not wrong to refer to a headstone as a gravestone also.

What Is a Gravestone?

Markers were as soon as made use of to explain a large stone piece that covered the entire tomb. Comparable to the beginning of headstone and tombstones, markers were often inscribed with info concerning a person.

Middle English in origin, the word marker dates back to 1175 - 1225. When most think of a gravestone, they consider an upright, standing severe marker. However, today a marker extra very closely appears like a grave journal-- a huge stone piece featuring lengthier details like a liked one's ancestry or a list of their success.

At Milano Monuments, we utilize the term gravestone reciprocally with the term headstone, yet not as frequently.

Check Out A Lot More Memorial Terminology

The terms headstone, marker as well as headstone as soon as implied really various points. Nonetheless, in time they have actually evolved to share памятник в виде ангела на могилу similar significances. If you want finding out more regarding one-of-a-kind memorial terms and various other relevant celebration subjects, register for our blog and also get resources straight in your inbox.