caoin

Caoine is a traditional Irish lament, a form of keening or wailing performed at wakes and funerals. Historically, it was a communal expression of grief, often led by women who were skilled in its performance. The caoine could take various forms, from spontaneous outbursts of sorrow to more structured, poetic laments recounting the life and virtues of the deceased.

The practice of caoine is deeply rooted in Irish culture and folklore. It was believed to be a way to honor the dead, to release pent-up emotions, and to provide solace to the bereaved. The lyrics of a caoine often spoke of the deceased's character, their accomplishments, and the void their passing left behind. Melodies were typically mournful and evocative, intended to stir deep feelings of sadness and remembrance.

While the tradition of public caoine has declined significantly in modern times, aspects of its spirit can still be found in contemporary Irish funeral customs and music. The word "caoine" itself has entered the English language as a synonym for a mournful lament or outcry. It represents a powerful and enduring cultural expression of loss and remembrance within the Irish context.