from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Hearse \Hearse\ (h[~e]rs), n. [See {Herse}.]
1. A framework of wood or metal placed over the coffin or
tomb of a deceased person, and covered with a pall; also,
a temporary canopy bearing wax lights and set up in a
church, under which the coffin was placed during the
funeral ceremonies. [Obs.] --Oxf. Gloss.
[1913 Webster]
2. A grave, coffin, tomb, or sepulchral monument. [Archaic]
"Underneath this marble hearse." --B. Johnson.
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Beside the hearse a fruitful palm tree grows.
--Fairfax
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Who lies beneath this sculptured hearse.
--Longfellow.
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3. A bier or handbarrow for conveying the dead to the grave.
[Obs.]
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Set down, set down your honorable load,
It honor may be shrouded in a hearse. --Shak.
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4. A carriage or motor vehicle specially adapted or used for
conveying the dead to the grave in a coffin.
[1913 Webster +PJC]