Definition of casket

The word "casket" has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. It originates from the Old French word "casse," which referred to a box or chest. The French word is derived from the Latin "cista," meaning "basket" or " chest." The Latin term was often used to describe containers used for storing or transporting valuable goods. Over time, the term "casket" evolved to specifically refer to a ornate box used to hold the remains of the deceased. This sense of the word emerged in the 15th century and was influenced by the practice of placing the body in a coffin-like box before burial. Today, the term "casket" is widely used in the funeral industry to describe the container used to hold the deceased before burial or cremation. Despite its origins in ancient Latin and French, the word "casket" has become an integral part of modern funeral practices.