obsequiary

Obsequiary is a rarely used English noun and adjective that pertains to obsequies, or funeral rites. As a noun, an obsequiary may refer to a person who attends, conducts, or oversees funeral obsequies. As an adjective, obsequiary describes items, practices, or proceedings connected with those rites.

Etymology and history: The term derives from obsequies, with the -ary suffix forming an adjective or agent noun in English. It traces back to Latin obsequium and through Old French influences. In modern usage, obsequiary is considered archaic or literary, appearing mainly in historical texts or discussions of ceremonial practices.

Usage and context: Because it is uncommon, obsequiary tends to occur in older writings, ceremonial descriptions, or scholarly works rather than contemporary prose. It should be distinguished from obsequious, which means overly eager to please. Related terms include obsequial (pertaining to funeral rites) and obsequies (the funeral ceremonies themselves).

See also: obsequies, obsequial, obsequiary (obsolete), obsequious.

References: Obsequiary is an obscure, historically attested term with limited usage in modern English. It is not widely encountered in contemporary dictionaries, and its precise senses may vary by source.