The words coffin and casket are sometimes used interchangeably. But is there a difference between these two words? Let’s look at the origin and current usage of coffin and casket – and then we will tell you how to save money when buying one.

What Is a Coffin?

Webster’s Dictionary defines the word “coffin” as “a box or chest for burying a corpse.”

“Coffin” may have come from the Latin word “cophinus,” meaning “basket or hamper.” It may have also been derived from the Greek word “kophinos,” meaning “a basket.” The term “coffin” has been used to describe a box for the deceased since 1525.

What Is a Casket?

According to Webster’s Dictionary, the word “casket” is defined as “a small chest or box (as for jewels)” and “a usually fancy coffin.” The word “casket” may have been a modification of the Middle French word “cassette” meaning “box.”

Quick Read: Purchasing Caskets Online? Get All Your Queries Answered

The word “casket” began to be used to describe a burial container in the 1800s, at around the same time undertaking became an official profession. It’s thought that funeral home directors began to use the word “casket” as a euphemistic version of the word “coffin.”

What’s the Difference Between a Coffin and a Casket?

Many Americans would view a coffin and a casket as interchangeable words. And if you search online for “coffins for sale,” you will be shown what most Americans envision when they think of caskets. However, some people have a particular design, shape, and material in mind when they use the word “coffin.”

Design and Shape

For some, a coffin refers to a specifically shaped burial container that is tapered to mimic the form of a human body. For some, a “coffin” is wider at the shoulders and narrower at the head and foot. It’s sometimes called a six-sided coffin or “toe-pincher.” This type of burial container is not as common as a typical casket.

A modern casket is typically shaped like a rectangular prism. Caskets come in a wide variety of designs and colors.

Material or Construction

If you find a tapered coffin for sale, it may be made in a simple style out of unfinished wood. Some six-sided coffins are made with little or no metal pieces.

A modern casket can also be made from solid wood or veneer. However, you can also purchase a modern casket made from metal.

How to Find Premium Caskets for Sale

Some think buying a six-sided coffin might be cheaper than buying a modern casket. While this may have been true once in our nation’s history, it isn’t the case now. To find affordable caskets, purchase one from an online store that sells wholesale caskets.

Express Casket helps families save on funeral expenses by offering quality modern caskets at an affordable price. We ship directly to the funeral home and offer guaranteed on-time delivery.

First, visit the Express Casket website to select the premium casket that best honors your loved one, and then call one of our consultants at 888-448-4001. Do you have additional questions about caskets and coffins? We are ready to help.