A dirge is a sad song, poem, or piece of music for someone who has died. It is usually slow, serious, and full of grief.
People use the word dirge when talking about funeral music or anything that sounds very mournful. In everyday life, it can also describe a song or sound that feels gloomy and depressing.
Meaning & Usage
A dirge is most often connected with death and mourning. You might hear it in a funeral setting, in literature, or when someone describes music that sounds very sad.
Examples
The choir sang a dirge at the memorial service.
The old song sounded like a dirge.
Is a dirge always music?
Not always. It can also be a poem or any sound that feels like a funeral song.
Is dirge a positive word?
No. It usually has a sad, serious meaning.
Where do people use this word most?
It is common in writing, poetry, and formal or literary speech.
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