What is the term for the act of placing cremains in an urn?

The term "inurnment" specifically refers to the process of placing cremated remains, or cremains, into an urn. This term is derived from the word "urn," which is a container designed for holding ashes. Inurnment typically occurs during a memorial service or a private family ceremony and is a meaningful way to honor and memorialize the deceased.

Understanding this term is crucial in the context of funeral service merchandising, as professionals must communicate clearly with families about the various processes involved in handling cremated remains and the options available for memorialization. The use of urns is a significant aspect of cremation services; thus, recognizing the terminology helps ensure that families receive the appropriate support and guidance they need during their time of loss.

In contrast, interment refers to the act of burying remains in the ground, cremation is the process of reducing a body to ashes through heat, and entombment pertains to placing remains in a crypt or mausoleum above ground. These terms, while related to the disposition of human remains, do not apply to the specific act of placing cremains in an urn.