epitaph
/ˈɛpɪˌtæf/
noun
- An inscription on a tombstone or monument in memory of the person buried there.
- She wrote a simple epitaph for her grandmother's headstone.
- The epitaph on the grave read, 'Beloved father and friend.'
- Tourists read the famous poet's epitaph in the old churchyard.
- A brief statement or saying that sums up someone's life or character, often used figuratively.
- The journalist's article served as an epitaph for the failed project.
- The abandoned building stood as an epitaph to the town's lost industry.
- His final speech became the epitaph of his political career.
Synonyms