the solemn rites used in the disposition of a dead human body, whether such disposition be by interment, burning, or otherwise; esp., the ceremony or solemnization of interment; obsequies; burial; -- formerly used in the plural.-the procession attending the burial of the dead; the show and accompaniments of an interment.-a funeral sermon; -- usually in the plural.-per. taining to a funeral; used at the interment of the dead; as, funeral rites, honors, or ceremonies.