URNFIELD Meaning and
Definition
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Urnfield is an archaeological term that refers to a specific type of burial site prevalent during the Bronze Age in Europe, particularly between 1300 and 750 BCE (Before Common Era). The term "urnfield" stems from the characteristic burial custom of cremating the deceased and interring their remains in urns. These burials were typically situated in pre-existing settlements, where extensive urn cemeteries were established.
The urnfields were identified by their distinctive oval or circular shape, often surrounded by a ditch or a palisade. The burials were organized in rows, with individual urns or cluster of urns placed in pits or small graves. These urns possibly contained the cremated remains of a single individual or multiple individuals from the same family or community.
The urnfields often provide crucial archaeological evidence for understanding the social and cultural aspects of Bronze Age societies. In addition to urns, a variety of grave goods and offerings, such as clay pots, metalwork, jewelry, weapons, and tools, were also placed in the burials, highlighting the significance of these objects in the religious or symbolic practices of the time.
The term "urnfield" has become widely accepted within archaeological literature and has also been used to describe the broader cultural and chronological framework in which these burial sites can be understood. The urnfield culture played a significant role in shaping European societies during the Bronze Age, leaving a lasting legacy in terms of burial customs, material culture, and ceremonial practices.
Common Misspellings for URNFIELD
- yrnfield
- hrnfield
- jrnfield
- irnfield
- 8rnfield
- 7rnfield
- uenfield
- udnfield
- ufnfield
- utnfield
- u5nfield
- u4nfield
- urbfield
- urmfield
- urjfield
- urhfield
- urndield
- urncield
- urnvield
- urngield
Etymology of URNFIELD
The word "urnfield" is derived from the combination of two words: "urn" and "field".
The term "urn" originated from the Old English word "urne", which itself came from the Proto-Germanic word "urną". The original meaning of "urn" referred to a vessel or container used for storing ashes or as a burial container for cremated remains. This term was often used in the context of funeral rites and burial practices.
The word "field" can be traced back to the Old English word "feld", which is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word "felđą". It refers to an expanse of open land, typically used for cultivation or pasture.
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