Distinguishing Between a Cemetery & a Graveyard

The main distinction between a cemetery and a graveyard is that a cemetery is not located next to a church, while a graveyard is situated next to a church. Both terms refer to places where the dead are buried. Although many people use these words interchangeably, there is a difference between the two, with cemeteries being a relatively newer concept compared to graveyards.

Key Takeaways

• A cemetery is not adjacent to a church, while a graveyard is part of the churchyard.
• Cemeteries are a relatively new concept, developed when traditional graveyards became full due to population increase.
• Both cemetery and graveyard refer to burial grounds of the dead, but their locations differ.

What is a Cemetery?

The term cemetery comes from the Greek word koimētērion, meaning “sleeping place.” Cemeteries are places where the remains of dead people are buried. They were created when traditional graveyards became full due to population growth. Unlike a graveyard, a cemetery is not located next to a church. Different countries and cultures have various types of cemeteries, such as dedicated military burial grounds and private or family cemeteries.

What is a Graveyard?

A graveyard is a burial ground that is adjacent to a church, or in other words, part of the churchyard. In the past, people, especially nobles and wealthy individuals, were buried near the church. Some were even buried in crypts beneath the church. The church had authority over the burial of the dead, with individuals who committed suicide not allowed to be buried within the consecrated grounds of the graveyard, but instead buried just outside the cemeteries.

What is the Similarity Between Cemetery and Graveyard?

Both terms refer to burial grounds of the dead.

What is the Difference Between Cemetery and Graveyard?

A cemetery is a burial ground, while a graveyard is a burial ground located in a churchyard. The main difference between a cemetery and a graveyard is their location. Furthermore, graveyards are older than cemeteries since cemeteries are a relatively new concept.

Summary – Cemetery vs Graveyard

Although many people use the terms cemetery and graveyard interchangeably, there is a difference between the two. The basic difference between a cemetery and a graveyard is their location; cemeteries are not situated next to a church, while graveyards are located next to a church.