Word List

deceased(adjective)

no longer living; dead

"Day of the Dead ... is a colorful and meaningful celebration in Mexico that honors deceased loved ones."

takes place(phrasal verb)

happens; occurs

"It takes place from October 31st to November 2nd."

reunion(noun)

a gathering of people who have been apart, coming together again

"It is considered as a joyful reunion with those who have passed away."

passed away(phrase)

died (a gentle, polite way of saying someone has died)

"It is considered as a joyful reunion with those who have passed away."

roots(noun)

the origin or historical source of something

"The roots of Day of the Dead go back to the Aztec civilization."

ancestral altar(phrase)

a table or platform set up to honor and remember one's ancestors

"One of the most important traditions during Day of the Dead is the creation of an ofrenda, or ancestral altar."

cemeteries(noun)

places where dead people are buried

"Families set up these altars in their homes and cemeteries."

decorating(verb)

making something look more attractive by adding ornaments

"Families ... decorate them with photos, favorite foods, and items that belonged to the deceased."

nourishment(noun)

food and other things necessary for life, health, and growth

"These altars ... offer them comfort and nourishment during their visit."

graves(noun)

places in the ground where dead bodies are buried

"People also celebrate by visiting graves, cleaning them, and leaving food offerings."

gather(verb)

to come together in a group

"Families gather to share stories and remember their loved ones with joy rather than sadness."

guide(verb)

to lead or show the way to someone

"Marigolds: Bright orange flowers that guide spirits back to their families."

Lit(verb)

set something on fire; ignited

"Candles: Lit candles to help spirits find their way home."

parades(noun)

public processions that often celebrate something, with music and marching

"In cities like Mexico City, there are big parades with colorful floats, music, and dancing."

floats(noun)

decorated vehicles or platforms driven or carried in a parade

"In cities like Mexico City, there are big parades with colorful floats, music, and dancing."

costumes(noun)

clothes worn to represent a different character or figure

"People dress up in bright costumes and paint their faces to look like skeletons."

skeletons(noun)

the framework of bones in a body, often used as a symbolic image

"People dress up in bright costumes and paint their faces to look like skeletons."

focuses(verb)

concentrates attention on a particular thing

"Halloween focuses on scary and spooky elements, while the Day of the Dead celebrates life and remembrance."

remembrance(noun)

the act of remembering someone or something, especially with respect

"The Day of the Dead celebrates life and remembrance."

festive occasion(phrase)

a happy event or celebration

"It is a festive occasion filled with color and joy rather than fright."

fright(noun)

a sudden feeling of fear

"It is a festive occasion filled with color and joy rather than fright."

reconnect(verb)

to establish a connection with someone or something again

"Day of the Dead ... is a time for families to reconnect with their past, celebrate life, and honor those who have passed away."

celebrate(verb)

to honor a special occasion or event with enjoyable activities

"Day of the Dead ... is a time for families to reconnect with their past, celebrate life, and honor those who have passed away."