Cemetary

/ˈsɛmətɛri/ noun

Definition

A misspelling of 'cemetery'—a place where dead bodies are buried.

Etymology

A common misspelling of 'cemetery,' from Greek 'koimeterion' meaning 'sleeping place.' The '-ary' ending in English (like 'library' and 'dictionary') tricks people into this incorrect spelling.

Kelly Says

Even though 'cemetary' appears constantly in gravestones, historical records, and online, it's never been correct—the 'e' before the '-tery' is the only right way, making this one of English's most persistent spelling mistakes!

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