noun
elegy
EL-uh-jee
Elegy (noun) means a poem or piece of music written in mourning for someone who has died, or in a serious, reflective, sorrowful tone. Example: “He wrote an elegy for his father.”
noun
1
A poem or piece of music written in mourning for someone who has died, or in a serious, reflective, sorrowful tone.
"He wrote an elegy for his father."
How to Use Elegy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sad poem written for someone who has died.
Easily confused with
eulogy →
elegiac
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He wrote an _____ for his father.
Etymology
From Greek "elegos," a mournful poem or song.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for elegy
See all rhymes for elegy →Frequently Asked Questions
What is an elegy?
A poem of mourning and reflection, usually written for someone who has died. The tone is sorrowful and serious rather than celebratory.
What is the difference between an elegy and a eulogy?
An elegy is a poem or piece of music mourning a loss. A eulogy is a speech delivered in praise of someone, usually at their funeral. The words sound similar and are often mixed up.