headstone

noun

head·​stone ˈhed-ˌstōn How to pronounce headstone (audio)
Synonyms of headstonenext
: a memorial stone at the head of a grave

Synonyms of headstone

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Examples of headstone in a Sentence

many of the headstones were for children who had died during the influenza epidemic
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some headstones around it have been knocked off their bases. — Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 28 June 2026 But the 76-year-old Fleck is too busy for a headstone. — Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2026 Stroll through the grounds for free and admire the intricate headstones and mausoleums. — Krista Simmons, Travel + Leisure, 6 June 2026 Even today, his headstone in Philadelphia lists the wrong date for his death. — Jesse Wegman, The Atlantic, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for headstone

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of headstone was in the 15th century

Rhymes for headstone

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Browse Nearby Words

headstock
headstone
headstream
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Cite this Entry

“Headstone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/headstone. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

headstone

noun
head·​stone -ˌstōn How to pronounce headstone (audio)
: a memorial stone placed at the head of a grave

More from Merriam-Webster on headstone

Nglish: Translation of headstone for Spanish Speakers

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