An epitaph (from Greek ἐπιτάφιος epitaphios "a funeral oration" from ἐπί epi "at, over" and τάφος taphos "tomb") is a short text honoring a deceased person. Strictly speaking, it refers to text that is inscribed on a tombstone or plaque, but it may also be used in a figurative sense.

Where did epitaphs originate?

The phrase epitaph comes from the Greek phrase epitaphios meaning “funeral oration.”

Why do we write epitaphs?

An epitaph, or gravestone inscription, serves many purposes. Translated from the Greek to mean “upon a tomb,” epitaphs can identify the deceased, summarize an entire life or profession, or express tributes from mourners left behind. Memorable epitaphs can even bring a final smile or tear to those left behind.