Requiem

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈrÉ›kwiˌɛm/, /ˈrÉ›kwi.É™m/
• Hyphenation: re + qui + em

Origin

The first word of the introit for the traditional requiem mass, an alternative accusative case of Latin requiēs ("rest, repose"), from re- ("again") + quiēs ("rest, quiet").

Full definition of requiem

Noun

1. A mass (especially Catholic) to honor and remember a dead person.
2. A musical composition for such a mass.
3. A piece of music composed to honor a dead person.

Usage notes

The Latin Introit, or opening prayer, for a requiem mass starts with the words:

Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis.

"Grant them eternal rest, Lord, and may everlasting light shine upon them."

Coordinate terms

• dirge, elegy, threnody – funeral songs

Related terms

• requiescat

Derived terms

• requiem mass
• requiem shark