epicede

noun

ep·​i·​cede

ˈepəˌsēd

variants or epicedium

ˌ⸗⸗ˈsēdēəm

plural epicedes

ˈ⸗⸗ˌsēdz

or epicedia

ˌ⸗⸗ˈsēdēə

: a funeral song or ode : dirge, elegy

Lycidas … formed a part of a collection of epicedes on Edward King

—George Saintsbury

Word History

Etymology

Latin epicedium, from Greek epikēdeion, from neuter of epikēdeios of a funeral, from epikēdeia funeral, from epi- + kēdeia funeral, mourning, from kēdos grief, trouble, sadness + -eia -y

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now