suttee

/ˈsuːti/

Definitions

1. noun

the practice of burning a widow alive with her deceased husband’s corpse, especially in ancient India; a widow who is cremated with her dead husband

“The historical records revealed the prevalence of suttee in ancient Indian society, highlighting the need for social reform.”

2. verb

to burn a widow alive with her deceased husband’s corpse

“In some cultures, women were sutteed as a form of punishment or to preserve family honor.”

Synonyms

  • husband-wife cremation
  • widow burning

Antonyms

  • social liberation
  • widow remarriage