coffin

A coffin is a funerary container used to hold the body of a deceased person for burial or cremation. In many parts of the world the term refers to a tapering, six- or eight-sided box, while in North America the term casket is commonly used for a rectangular box with a hinged lid. The distinction is cultural rather than technical.

Construction and materials vary widely. Commonly, coffins are made of wood such as pine, oak, or mahogany, but metal coffins of steel, stainless steel, copper, or bronze are also used. Modern varieties may use fiberglass or other composites. Inside, coffins are lined with fabric or padding, and the lining is often removable to facilitate cleaning or display.

Design, shape, and size differ by tradition and region. Typical dimensions are around six to seven feet in length and about two to three feet in width. Coffins may have a simple rectangular profile or a tapered or hexagonal cross-section, and finishes range from plain to highly decorative.

History and use: coffins have existed in various forms since ancient times and have been adopted by many cultures as a standard container for burial. The modern tapered coffin became common in the 19th century in Western funeral practices, paralleling changes in manufacturing and social customs. The term itself derives from Old French cofin, from Latin cophinus meaning basket.

Eco-friendly options: in recent decades, biodegradable coffins made from untreated wood, cardboard, bamboo, willow, and similar materials have become popular for green burials, aiming to reduce environmental impact while preserving traditional funeral rites. Coffins remain a central element of many funerary traditions worldwide.