Difference Between Cemetery and Graveyard

Main Difference – Cemetery vs Graveyard

The two words, cemetery and graveyard both refer to a place where the dead is buried. Although these two words are often used interchangeably by many people, there is a subtle difference between cemetery and graveyard. The main difference between cemetery and graveyard is that graveyard is situated close to a church whereas a cemetery is not situated near a church.

What is a Cemetery

By the late 18^th century, the population of Europe has increased intently; the graveyards were no longer sufficient for burial purposes. It was only then that the concept of creating burial grounds away from the church began to be introduced. This kind of burial ground, which is not close to a church, is called a cemetery. So, a cemetery is a large burial ground which is not situated in a churchyard.

The term cemetery comes from Old French cimetiere which is originated from Greek koimeterion meaning sleeping place or dormitory.

What is a Graveyard

Graveyard is a burial place situated beside a church. In Christian traditions, graveyard was often associated with the church. This is because burying of the dead was only allowed in lands near a church in the past. So a burial ground close to a church is called a graveyard. Graveyard literally refers to a yard full of graves. In the past, a graveyard was considered to be a part of the church. It was the church who had control over the process of burying the dead.