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Definition of headstone

headstone

/ˈhɛdˌstoʊn/
head · stone
Plural:headstones
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headstone Lexical Profile

headstone Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A slab of stone set up at the head of a grave, typically inscribed with the name of the deceased, dates of birth and death, and an epitaph.

Example

"Moss and lichen had slowly grown over the carved lettering on the old granite headstone."

2

A principal stone in the foundation or arch of a building, such as a cornerstone or keystone.

Example

"The masons carefully hoisted the carved headstone into position at the apex of the stone arch."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

headspace
headstand
headstander
headstone
headstrong
headteacher
headwaiter

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as a compound of 'head' and 'stone', originally translating Latin 'lapis angularis' to denote a cornerstone or principal foundation stone in biblical contexts before coming to refer to a stone placed at the head of a grave in the 17th century.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Headstone. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/headstone
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