General
rose cottage
What does rose cottage mean?
A gentle-sounding code name for the mortuary, used so patients and visitors don't realise what is meant.
"The porters have taken him down to Rose Cottage."
Origin
British hospital euphemism for the morgue.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'Rose Cottage' mean in a hospital?
It's a gentle British euphemism for the mortuary, used so patients and visitors don't overhear that someone has died.
Why use a code name for the mortuary?
To be discreet and avoid alarming patients or relatives when discussing where a body is being taken.
Is 'Rose Cottage' offensive?
No, it's a deliberately soft, respectful euphemism rather than gallows humour.
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