Which term describes historic funeral ceremonies?

The term that describes historic funeral ceremonies is obsequies. This word specifically refers to the formal rites or ceremonies conducted at the time of a death, focusing on the practices and customs surrounding funerals throughout history. Obsequies encompass various elements such as prayers, eulogies, and other ritualistic components that have evolved over time, reflecting cultural attitudes toward death and mourning.

While the other terms may relate to aspects of funerary practices, they do not specifically encapsulate the notion of historic funeral ceremonies. Rituals refer more generally to prescribed or established acts, often spiritual or religious in nature, that can occur in various contexts, not just in relation to funerals. Vigils usually describe a period of staying awake during the time when one normally would be sleeping, often associated with mourning but not exclusively tied to formal funeral ceremonies. Commemorations refer to activities or ceremonies designed to honor someone or something, which can include but is not limited to funerals.