epitaph

• Kurzer Text oder Inschrift auf einem Grabstein oder Denkmal zum Gedenken an einen Verstorbenen.

A noun referring to a short text or inscription written on a tombstone or monument in memory of a deceased person.

1. Inscription on a tombstoneC1formal

   A short text written in memory of a deceased person, usually carved on their tombstone.

   Grabinschrift

   • The epitaph on his grave reads 'Beloved father and friend'.
   • She composed a beautiful epitaph for her grandmother.
   • Many ancient epitaphs provide insight into historical lives.

   Synonymeinscription

2. Figurative memorialC2formal

   Something that serves as a final statement or summary of a person's life, career, or legacy.

   Epitaph (im übertragenen Sinne)

   • The biography served as an epitaph for the forgotten artist.
   • His final speech was an epitaph for his political career.
   • The museum exhibit became an epitaph for the lost civilization.

   Synonymecommemorationeulogymemorialobituaryremembrancetestamenttribute